Panorama Tartu © Tarmo Haud

Tartu

Tartu (also known as Dorpat in German), Estonia's second largest town, developed to be an important trading post along the commercial route to the east in the late 13th century and has been part of the Hanseatic League ever since. Tartu is also a home to the oldest university in Northern Europe, established in 1632.

Tartu has a large number of museums (e.g the Estonian National Museum) and a vibrant nightlife. Tartu is very compact and practically all sights, restaurants and nightlife can be found in one or the other parallel street. Tartu is a cradle of creativity and science - you will always find theater performances, concerts and festivals here, including the Hanseatic Days. In 2024 Tartu will become the European Capital of Culture!

Facts & Figures

Icon Founded

Founded

Year 1030

Icon Location

Location

58.38012 latitude and 26.72245 longitude

Icon Population

Population

95090

UNESCO World Heritage

Since 2015, Tartu has been part of the UNESCO City of Literature network.

In 2005 the Struve Geodetic Arc was entered into UNESCO World Heritage List.

What is the city known for?

University of Tartu

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