Rakvere: A Medieval Gem in Estonia

• HelloTere
  [teh-reh]
• GoodbyeHead aega
  [h-ead ah-ga]
• YesJah
  [yah]
• NoEi
  [ay]
• Please/You're welcomePalun
  [pah-loon]
• Thank youAitäh
  [eye-teh]
• Excuse me/SorryVabandage
  [vah-ban-da-geh]
• How are you?Kuidas sul läheb?
  [kwee-das sool lay-heb]
• Fine. And you?Hästi. Ja sina?
  [ha-stee. ya see-na]
• Do you speak English?Kas sa räägid inglise keelt?
  [kahs sah raah-ee-gid eeng-leh-seh kehlt]
• I don't understandMa ei saa aru
  [mah ay sah ah-roo]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMa sooviksin menüüd näha, palun
  [mah soh-veek-seen meh-noo-d nah-ha, pah-loon]
• I don't eat meatMa ei söö liha
  [mah ay suh lay-ah]
• Cheers!Terviseks!
  [tehr-vee-sehks]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMa sooviksin maksta, palun
  [mah soh-veek-seen mahk-stah, pah-loon]

• Help!Appi!
  [ahp-pee]
• Go away!Mine minema!
  [mee-ne mee-ne-mah]
• Call the Police!Kutsu politsei!
  [koot-soo poh-lee-tsey]
• Call a doctor!Kutsu arst!
  [koot-soo ah-rst]
• I'm lostMa olen eksinud
  [mah oh-lehn ehk-see-nood]
• I'm illMa olen haige
  [mah oh-lehn hah-ee-geh]

• I'd like to buy...Ma sooviksin osta...
  [mah soh-veek-seen oh-stah]
• I'm just lookingMa vaatan ainult
  [mah vah-tahn eye-noolt]
• How much is it?Kui palju see maksab?
  [kwee pahl-yoo seh mahk-sahb]
• That's too expensiveSee on liiga kallis
  [seh ohn lee-gah kahl-lees]
• Can you lower the price?Kas saad hinda alandada?
  [kahs sah-ahd hin-dah ah-lahn-dah-dah]

• What time is it?Mis kell on?
  [mees kehl ohn]
• It's one o'clockOn üks kell
  [ohn uks kehl]
• Half past (10)Pool (10)
  [pohl (10)]
• MorningHommik
  [hohm-meek]
• AfternoonPärastlõuna
  [pah-rahst-loh-oo-nah]
• EveningÕhtu
  [ohkh-too]
• YesterdayEile
  [ay-leh]
• TodayTäna
  [tah-nah]
• TomorrowHomme
  [hohm-meh]
• 1Üks
  [ooks]
• 2Kaks
  [kahks]
• 3Kolm
  [kohlm]
• 4Neli
  [neh-lee]
• 5Viis
  [vees]
• 6Kuus
  [koos]
• 7Seitse
  [sayt-seh]
• 8Kaheksa
  [kah-heksah]
• 9Üheksa
  [ooh-heksah]
• 10Kümme
  [koom-meh]

• Where's a/the...?Kus on ...?
  [koos ohn]
• What's the address?Mis on aadress?
  [mees ohn ah-ah-dress]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kas saad mulle näidata (kaardil)?
  [kahs sah-ahd moo-leh nah-ee-tah-dah kah-ard-eel]
• When's the next (bus)?Millal on järgmine (buss)?
  [meel-lahl ohn yahrg-mee-neh boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Pilet (....le)
  [pee-leht leh]

Rakvere, located in northern Estonia, has a rich history dating back to the 13th century. The settlement was first mentioned in written sources in 1226. The area was initially settled by the Estonian tribe of the Vironians, who built a wooden stronghold on the site known today as Rakvere.

In the 14th century, Rakvere came under the control of the Livonian Order, a branch of the Teutonic Knights. They constructed the stone Rakvere Castle, which became a significant stronghold in the region. The castle served as a military and administrative center, playing a crucial role in the Northern Crusades and the spread of Christianity in Estonia.

The Livonian War (1558–1583) was a turbulent period for Rakvere, as the town changed hands multiple times between Russia, Poland, and Sweden. Eventually, Rakvere came under Swedish control in 1581. Under Swedish rule, the town experienced economic growth and development, with improvements in infrastructure and trade.

The Great Northern War (1700–1721) brought significant upheaval to Rakvere. The town and its castle suffered extensive damage during the conflict. Following the war, Rakvere was annexed by the Russian Empire in 1721 as part of the Treaty of Nystad. The town became a part of the Governorate of Estonia, integrating into the Russian administrative system.

The 19th century marked a period of industrialization and modernization for Rakvere. The construction of the Tallinn-Narva railway in 1870 connected Rakvere to major trade routes, spurring economic growth. The town saw the establishment of various industries, including breweries, sawmills, and brick factories, which contributed to its development.

Following Estonia's declaration of independence in 1918, Rakvere became an important regional center. The interwar period was characterized by cultural and economic development, with the establishment of schools, cultural institutions, and local businesses. Rakvere also played a role in the Estonian War of Independence, with local volunteers participating in the fight for freedom.

Rakvere, like the rest of Estonia, experienced significant hardship during the Soviet occupation and World War II. The town was occupied by Soviet forces in 1940, followed by German occupation in 1941, and then re-occupied by the Soviets in 1944. The war left Rakvere with significant destruction, and the subsequent Soviet era brought about political repression and economic changes.

Estonia regained its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, and Rakvere began a new chapter in its history. The town has since undergone significant revitalization, with investments in infrastructure, culture, and tourism. Rakvere Castle has been restored and transformed into a popular tourist attraction, and the town hosts various cultural events and festivals, celebrating its rich history and heritage.

Rakvere is located in northern Estonia, approximately 100 kilometers east of Tallinn, the capital. The easiest way to reach Rakvere is by taking a train from Tallinn, which offers multiple daily departures and takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive from Tallinn to Rakvere, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by car. Buses are also available from Tallinn and other major cities in Estonia, providing a comfortable and affordable option.

Rakvere is a compact town, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, local buses and taxis are readily available. Biking is also a popular option, with several rental shops in the town. Public transportation within Rakvere is efficient, and buses connect to neighboring towns and villages. If you prefer more flexibility, car rentals are available and can be a great way to explore the surrounding region.

The official currency in Estonia is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Rakvere, including in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets. ATMs are plentiful and can be found throughout the town.

Rakvere is generally a safe destination for tourists. Standard precautions are recommended, such as not leaving personal belongings unattended and being cautious in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which will connect you to emergency services including police, fire, and medical help. The local police station is located in the town center, and Rakvere has a hospital and several pharmacies for medical needs. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Casual attire is acceptable in most places, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs when visiting religious sites. It's advisable to dress modestly and speak quietly. Public Transport: Do be respectful and considerate to other passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Tere' (Hello in Estonian). A handshake is common in formal situations. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and beverages. Don’t refuse an offer to join in a meal, as it can be seen as impolite.

To experience Rakvere like a local, visit the Rakvere Castle, which offers a glimpse into medieval history and hosts various events and reenactments. Take a stroll in the central park (Rakvere Vallimägi), which is a popular spot for locals. The local market is a great place to buy fresh produce and traditional Estonian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share insights about the town's history and culture. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Rakvere Theatre, which is one of the oldest and most renowned theatres in Estonia.