The Great Guildhall, Tallinn

The Great Guild (Estonian: Suurgild, German: Große Gilde) was a guild for merchants and artisans, operating in Tallinn from at least the 14th century[1] until 1920.[2] It was based in the Great Guild hall, a Gothic building in the historical centre of Tallinn, today housing the Estonian History Museum. In 2013, the Great Guild hall was named a European Heritage site.[3]

The building was erected in 1407-1410, with the interiors finished in 1417. The façade is decorated with blind arches, and has a typical, prominent portal. Inside, the main hall especially retains the medieval atmosphere. It is a large (365 square metres (3,930 sq ft)) room, supported by a range of pillars with decoratively carved capitals.[2]

The Great Guildhall is considered a typical example of medieval Tallinn architecture.[2]

References

  1. ^ Kala, Tiina. "Development of towns in the 14th–15th centuries. Church life in towns". Estonica - Encyclopedia about Estonia. Estonian Institute. Retrieved 19 December 2013.
  2. ^ a b c Viirand, Tiiu (2004). Estonia. Cultural Tourism. Kunst Publishers. p. 30. ISBN 9949407184.
  3. ^ "Story of the Great Guild hall". Estonian History Museum. Retrieved 2022-02-13.

59°26′17″N 24°44′42″E / 59.43806°N 24.74500°E / 59.43806; 24.74500

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