The Episcopal castle – hallmark for the whole region
Episcopal Castle (Piiskopilinnus) that is still in an excellent condition is by far the most impressive sight in Kuressaare. The walls, which are almost 20 meters high, give an extremely mighty impression of this almost 700-year-old fortification extremely mighty. There are two bulky towers at its northern corners that form the entrance of the castle.
The old building has a lot of interesting rooms and details: medieval living rooms and bedrooms, a storage room, a ball room, a well and a draw bridge create the appropriate atmosphere for expositions and concerts. At the same time, the castle houses Saaremaa Museum that offers precious insights in the diverse history of the city.
In the neighbouring park, you’ll find the beautiful Kuursaal, built in 1861 and now housing a cosy café. Crossing Lossi Street, you get right to the centre of the Old Town. There you can discover numerous other sights.
- "Trahter Veski" - today a rustic tavern.
The rather simple-style Town Hall (Raekoda), the time-honoured Knighthood building (Rüütelkonna hoone) and lots of stylish classicist residential buildings meet the eye in the Old Town of Kuressaare.
The two big churches are equally beautiful. A bit to the south – in Lossi Street – is the orthodox St. Nicolas Church, which was built in 1790; approx.
400 meters to the north is St. Laurence church that has been completed in 1836. In general, the atmosphere of Kuressaare is historic. In many places, you can still sense the diversified past of the town.
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