Standing on the edge of the bay of Tallinn, the Russalka Memorial is one of the most symbolic landmarks in the city. Learn about the tragic story behind this memorial and the modern-day traditions associated with the site.
The memorial was created by Amandus Heinrich Adamson, a well-known Estonian sculptor. It was erected in 1902 to mark the 9th anniversary of the sinking of the Russalka, a Helsinki-bound Russian warship that was wrecked in the Gulf of Finland, after setting off from Tallinn.
Gaze up at the top of the 52-foot (16-meter) tall statue. The monument features an exquisitely casted bronze angel figure standing atop a granite pillar. Note the Orthodox cross in the angel’s hand this is said to point toward the direction where the Russalka ship was sunk. During Soviet times, the cross was removed and the angel was left empty-handed for several years, before it was later restored.
Pause for a while at the monument to admire the views out to the sea horizon from the memorial. While here, be on the lookout for newlyweds. It has become tradition for Russian wedding couples to leave flowers here on their wedding day.
While here, take a stroll around the circumference of the monument. The ground here is paved in such a way that it resembles a compass.
After soaking up the solemn atmosphere and the sea views at the monument, continue strolling northeast along Pirita Promenade. This paved seafront path extends for over 1 mile (2 kilometers) and is popular among cyclists, strollers and joggers. Bring a camera to take photographs of Tallinn’s picturesque shoreline with the Old Town in the distance.
Find the Russalka Memorial just meters from the seafront about 10 minutes’ walk from Kadriorg Palace. Visitors planning a trip to the monument may also want to bring a swimsuit. A long strip of sandy beach stretches out from here all the way to Pirita and on warm days, is popular among swimmers and sunbathers.
