The Fat Margaret Tower, officially named "Paks Margareta" in Estonian, is a significant historical landmark and a proud representation of Tallinn's rich architectural heritage. Built as part of the city's defensive fortifications during the 16th century, this structure initially functioned as a protective gateway for the harbour.
The journey to construct the imposing defensive structure we see today began in the second quarter of the 14th century. A square tower with an arched gateway, the city's first gate, was erected on the road leading to the harbour when the district around St. Olaf's church was incorporated into the city. Unfortunately, this original structure did not survive to the present day.
Between 1434 and 1460, additional fortifications, including two slender round towers flanking the gate across the moat, were added. These were characteristic of Tallinn's architectural style at the time. The gate underwent significant reconstruction in the early 16th century. In 1510, the eastern round tower was replaced with the cannon tower known today as Fat Margaret.
Fat Margaret was a four-story construction with a battle platform. The ceilings within the tower rested on a central pillar, and in line with the principle of horizontal defence, cannons were also placed on the first floor. In addition, the gun chambers were equipped with ventilation channels. At the same time, a defensive base was added to the western tower of the fortifications, and later, a second wall (Zwinger) with two rows of embrasures was constructed in the northeastern corner of the city wall.
Two legends are associated with the tower's name, Fat Margaret. One story tells of a large woman named Margaret who cooked for the fortress guards. Unfortunately, she prepared unpalatable food and scrimped portions, leaving the soldiers hungry. In retaliation, the soldiers decided to wall her up alive within the tower. However, a more romantic version of the legend tells the tale of a peasant's son, Herman, and a fisherman's daughter, Margaret, who were in love. They would stroll hand-in-hand through the city in the evenings but were constantly obliged to part and leave the town before midnight due to a curse.
In its varied history, Fat Margaret has served as a storehouse, a barracks, and a prison. Now, it houses the Estonian Maritime Museum, an extensive repository of the nation's maritime history, ranging from ancient shipwrecks, navigational instruments, and marine artwork to nautical clothing. From the rooftop viewing platform, visitors are treated to panoramic views of Tallinn's Old Town and its harbour, seamlessly blending a historical journey with a visually captivating experience.
Fat Margaret is a significant part of Tallinn's architectural legacy today, perfectly merging the city's historic past with its vibrant present, captivating locals and visitors worldwide.
This is a relatively short and simple route that covers the most famous landmarks of the city. From the Viru Gates to the Town Hall Square, through the Pikk Jalg (Long Leg) street to the Upper Town, then descending to the Kiek in de Kök Tower and passing through the streets of the Old Town to the Northern Gates - the Fat Margaret Tower. Stories, legends, tales, beauty, and mysteries of the city.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
