Pikk Hermann Tower

Pikk Hermann is one of Tallinn's best-known towers and an important symbol of Estonia’s independence and statehood. The defensive tower, located next to Toompea Castle in Tallinn’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built in the 14th century and stands 45 meters high.

Through the centuries, Pikk Hermann has been an important part of the Toompea stronghold and Estonia’s history. Estonia's blue, black, and white national flag flies at the top of the tower. Estonians first raised the flag on the tower on 12 December 1918 and, after the Soviet occupation, on 24 February 1989. Since then, the tower has been an important symbol of Estonia’s freedom and independence.

The flag is raised at sunrise, but not before 7 a.m., and lowered at sunset. When it is raised, the Estonian national anthem is played, and when it is lowered, Gustav Ernesaks’s song Mu isamaa on minu arm (My Fatherland is My Love) is played.

Good to know! You can visit the Pikk Hermann tower on the Riigikogu Open House Day in April, on Flag Day on 4 June, and on the Day of Restoration of Independence on 20 August.