This monument stands in honour of Charles Leroux, an American aeronaut known for his feats in ballooning and parachuting. Leroux tragically lost his life during his 239th jump, which ended in a watery descent into the bay of what was then Reval, now known as Tallinn, Estonia.
Born in Waterbury, Connecticut, United States, Leroux ventured to Europe in 1889, keen on showcasing his talent in piloting balloons and executing parachute jumps. His performance tour included notable appearances in Berlin, Bremen in Germany, and Moscow and St. Petersburg in Russia. His final destination was Tallinn.
Leroux's last journey began from a bastion in the heart of the town in a balloon filled with illuminating gas. However, the winds had other plans, swaying the parachute and propelling it further to sea. It took two days for locals to recover Leroux's body, with the medical board determining the cause of death as drowning.
Leroux was laid to rest at the Kopli cemetery in Tallinn, a site that was unfortunately razed and obliterated by Soviet occupation forces in 1950. Despite this, Leroux's legacy remains, embodied in the monument commemorating his life and pioneering spirit in aeronautics.
[Photo By Tony Bowden](https://www.flickr.com/photos/tm-tm/2700882380/, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=84362570)
Embarking on a half-day or full-day journey around the Old Town of Tallinn is an opportunity to experience the magnificent aspects of this historic city beyond its medieval core.
We'll start our journey by strolling along the splendid Pirita promenade, known for its breathtaking views of Tallinn Bay. Here, you can capture some of the most impressive coastline photographs with the city's skyline in the backdrop.
Next, we'll visit the intriguing ruins of St. Bridget's Monastery. This former convent, dating back to the 15th century, is a testament to the city's religious history. The well-preserved ruins, set in a peaceful green space, offer an insightful glimpse into the monastic life of the past.
The final stop on our journey will be the Kadriorg Palace, a jewel of Petrine Baroque architecture nestled in a beautifully landscaped park. The palace is surrounded by charming gardens and ponds, offering a tranquil retreat from the bustling city. Designed by the famed Italian architect Niccolo Michetti, the palace and surrounding gardens provide a serene and picturesque end to exploring Tallinn's vicinities.
Overall, this journey offers a diverse experience, combining stunning natural views, historical insights, and architectural beauty, enriching your understanding and appreciation of Estonia's capital, Tallinn.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
