Visitors have called Põlva a small Swiss town because it is located on four hills and in a wide valley between them lies a beautiful artificial lake. According to legend, Põlva got its name from a kneeling girl walled in a church. The same Church of Blessed Virgin Mary, founded in the 13th century, welcomes guests to this day. The tradition of Estonian song festivals started in Põlva and the national accordion is in high value here. In 2015, Põlva was the accordion capital of Estonia. The central square, completed in the summer of 2018, attracts people of all ages. There is a special light installation in Lake Põlva.