Põlva is a small town in southeastern Estonia, the administrative centre of Põlva County. It sits in a gently rolling landscape of farmland, lakes, and forest that is typical of this quiet corner of the country. The town is modest in size but has an unexpectedly rich cultural history rooted in the Estonian national awakening of the 19th century — the first Estonian song festivals were held here in 1855 and 1857.
The Marian Church, known locally as Maarja kirik, is the oldest and most striking building in town. Founded around 1240, it has been rebuilt and restored after wars and fires, but the medieval core survives. A gilded weathercock placed atop the tower in 1726 still stands there today. Beside the church, the Cultural Centre houses galleries, a concert hall, and an art school, and its rooftop terrace offers the best view of the town.
The main draw for summer visitors is the artificial lake on the edge of town, fed by the Orajõgi River. The beach on its shores is the local swimming and sunbathing spot, with a peat island in the centre that is lit up at night. The Intsikurmu open-air stage in the surrounding forest hosts outdoor festivals throughout the warmer months. Põlva is not a major destination but makes a pleasant stop if you are traveling through southern Estonia.