While the first records of civilization in Viljandi date back to the 5th millennium B.C., it only became formally established as a commercial center in the 12th century. Sometimes called the cultural capital of Estonia, Viljandi’s unique place, people, nature, and architecture set it apart. The heritage of the place has been kept vibrant by its people through songs that symbolize freedom and independence.
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Location and people
The town lies in a valley on the shores of Lake Viljandi whose many outflowing streams make it a treasure to behold. A hiking trail with lay-byes for visitors to picnic and set campfires encircles the lake. Many legends surround the lake and are retold in songs. One tells of the boatman of Viljandi who fell hopelessly in love with a blue-eyed girl.
Known for their entrepreneurial spirit, and varied cultural and sporting hobbies, the people of the town are its greatest asset. The town is home to 20,000 people and is the 6th largest in Estonia.
Natural heritage
Looking over the edge of the Kuresoo, visitors can see the highest marsh above sea level in Europe.
Nature trails lead visitors through meadows and forests to some of the most exciting places in the area. There they learn of the great mysteries of Soomaa’s national park (370 km²) which protects the wetlands, meadows, and forests.
Regular floods are one of the specific features of this site. Local people call them the fifth season.
Arts and Culture
Kondas Center is an arts center dedicated to naïve art, modern folk art, and outsider art. It offers short-term courses for inhabitants and tourists and handles the eight massive strawberry sculptures that decorate the town. The inspiration for them is Paul Kondas’ “Strawberry Eaters” painting.
Heimtali village is a must-see to pick up some local handicrafts. The town organizes several fairs every spring. Famous handicrafts include patterned sweaters, knitted by local women, and worn by royals.
Historical heritage
On the slopes of the town lie the ruins of an ancient castle. On its wall is a mysterious paw print. According to legend, pressing one’s fingertips in this print will fulfill all honorable wishes!
Archaeological excavation findings are on display in the Viljandi Museum, in the old apothecary in the former marketplace. The well in the courtyard seems to be the source of power and rhythm for the town even today. People gather there for various festivals. There are the Hanseatic days, the Ugala drama theater’s open-air performances, and the folk music festival.
History is also reflected in the many manor estates – more than 20 have survived to this day. The most perfectly preserved is Olustvere with its magnificent mansion, outbuildings, and verdant park. A wooden horse exhibition, carved by the local master Voldemar Luht narrates the stories of Estonian history using small horse figurines.
Music
Traditional music is an active part of the everyday life of the people. The Estonian Traditional Music Center has organized the town’s folk music festival since 1993. The festival is well-known among the folk music community throughout the world.
More than a hundred concerts with over 400 performers are held in the ruins of Viljandi castle, churches, indoor venues, and throughout Viljandi county. Five open-air and three indoor venues, ten workshops, theme exhibitions, an instrument fair, a handicraft yard, and a fairy tale room ensure large participation.
Viljandi Festivals
A host of festivals take place in this town throughout the year. The early music festival, Hansa days, some dance festivals, and the theater-in-a-suitcase puppet festival – are just a few of the events. During the most popular event – the Viljandi folk music festival – there are so many performers and visitors that the town`s population doubles.
Viljandi is one of the five Estonian Hanseatic towns. During the traditional Hanseatic days, guests crowded the town, there were concerts and a handicraft fair was held. People walk in the streets wearing historical costumes. This all creates a medieval atmosphere. Craftsmen offer linen towels, baskets, woolen socks and gloves, honey, and sea buckthorn jam. Fortune-tellers, fire breathers, and witch doctors are also present to entertain and enthrall.
Interesting facts
The Eduard Pohl match factory has entered the Guinness Book of Records for making the world’s longest match ever lit.
| Official name | Viljandi |
| Inhabitants | 17,473 (2013) |
| Area | 14,62 km2 |
There are some fine hotels in Viljandi, some offer a complete Spa experience.
Grand Hotel Viljandi
The most elegant building in this town was completed in 1938 and was named the First Viljandi Representative Office or EVE.
After a thorough renovation, the hotel opened its doors in May 2002 and once again offers a luxurious overnight stay exclusive to EVE.
Grand Hotel Viljandi, which meets four-star quality requirements, has 50 unique rooms designed in art deco style and a 50-seat restaurant with a conference center.