Paldiski's St. George Orthodox Church

Paldiski's St. George Orthodox Church is a special stop for those seeking to understand the complex, multi-layered history of Paldiski. It is one of Estonia's oldest continuous Orthodox congregations, bearing silent witness to the city's birth as an important naval port of the Russian Empire.

The story of the congregation began in 1721, when a tent church was established here for the sailors, soldiers, and workers sent by Russian Emperor Peter I to work on fortifications. Later, a wooden church was built in its place, consecrated in honor of St. George the Great Martyr. The current stone church is a classical sanctuary with baroque elements.

The fate of the church reflects the story of Paldiski itself, from Peter I and Russian naval port to a Soviet military base and Estonia's re-independence. The bell tower and the onion-shaped altar dome, removed during the occupation, are still unreconstructed, making the building's appearance particularly striking. Church services are held on Sundays.

Step inside and discover the history of Paldiski through this extraordinary sanctuary!