Võru

The founder of Estonian literature, Friedrich Kreutzwald, was born in a peasant family near Rakvere, and studied medicine at the University of Tartu. He practised medicine for 44 years in Võru, simultaneously writing about the situation of the Estonian peasantry and collecting Estonian folklore. The most famous work of Kreutzwald was the collection of the Estonian epic poetry, Kalevipoeg. In addition, Kreutzwald was actively creating a single Estonian language (in exchange for dissimilar northern and southern adverbs) and introducing it into public life.
Even if you are unfamiliar with the person and works of Kreutzwald, going to the museum will be interesting. In addition to the household—the main house with interiors, a bathhouse, and a barn—there is a historical and literary side to it. To the left of the entrance there is a detailed and very informative exposition on the life of the writer, with information in Estonian and Russian languages. In one of the sheds, a collection of publications of Kalevipoeg and illustrations can be found. All very cosy and feels somewhat at home. The presenters will be happy to talk with you in a variety of languages, including English.

This Lutheran Church was built in 1788-93 with the support of the Catherine II. The architectural style was probably chosen with her help, because the church strikingly resembles the Latvian monuments of the Baroque style. Pay attention to the multi-tiered clock tower. On the square in front of the church stands a stone memorial for those killed in the 1994 MS Estonia shipwreck. Impressive due to a hand stretching out of the stone for help.

Same time, similar origins. All churches of Võru were sponsored by Catherine II, taking care of the integration of the Baltic states into the Russian Empire. This church contains a high and narrow drum stuck in the middle of the nave resembles an inedible mushroom. However, the church looks a little disproportionate.

An ordinary museum of local lore, with an interesting ethnographic exposition devoted to the Seto] settlements near Võru. If you do not have time to go to Obinitsa, at least go here. Bring your mobile phone and headphones as most of the signs are solely in Estonian, but by scanning a QR code in signs you can listen an audio description in English.

This modern construction has become a main attraction, maybe due to the lack of other sights. The bridge leads through the swamp to the opposite shore, where there was a settlement during the Stone Age. Pleasantly swaying under the feet, and at night beautifully highlighted.

Born 16 May 1879 in Narva and deceased 18 May 1941 in Võru. He was an Estonian composer, who laid the foundation for the original wind instrument.