Excursion A day in kuressaare tour at Saaremaa
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Explore the greatest wonders of Saaremaa Island in Kuressaare, the island's quaint capital, home to a population of approximately 15,000 people and boasting more than 600 years of history.
Without doubt, a tour of the capital must include the Episcopal Castle, the best-preserved medieval fortress in the Baltics, which is where your tour begins. The castle combined for many centuries the roles of Episcopal residence, a prison and a sanctuary. The basic 14th century quadrangular structure took 40 years to build and the massive walls were added later in the 15th century.
After the visit to the castle, begin your walking tour through the medieval streets of Kuressaare. View the main highlights of the town, including the town park, Pargi street, Lossi market place, St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, St. Lawrence Church and two of the finest buildings in the capital: the 17th century Town Hall and the baroque style Weigh House.
Pargi street and the Social Hall, located in the park in front of the Episcopal Castle, are the most charming remainders from the 19th century, when Kuressaare became a health resort.
Then head to one of the Kaali Meteorite Craters. In total there is a grouping of eight, 5,000-year-old meteor craters on Saaremaa. Saaremaa was already inhabited when the meteorites struck, and even today the resulting craters are a source of wonder to both locals and visitors.
Note
Please note: This excursion is not recommended for guests with limited mobility as there is an estimated one hour of walking and many steps to take within the castle. Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended.