Vabaduse väljak (Freedom Square)

The main civic square of central Tallinn with the Victory Column and Christmas tree site

Freedom Square is the main civic square of central Tallinn, connecting the edge of the Old Town with the modern city. The square was completely redesigned in 2009 for the 90th anniversary of Estonian independence, with the installation of the War of Independence Victory Column at its north end and the creation of an underground car park beneath it.

In December, the square hosts the main Tallinn Christmas tree and becomes the other pole of the city's Christmas market alongside Raekoja plats. In summer it serves as a gathering point and outdoor events venue. The underground passage through the square has a small exhibition on the history of the site.

things to do sight
A story
The tall Victory Column (Vabadussõja võidusammas) at the square's north end was erected in 2009 to commemorate the centenary of the Estonian War of Independence (1918–1920). The column is topped with a cross that was removed from the national coat of arms during the Soviet occupation and restored after independence. When it was unveiled, some critics called it too imposing for the square; others saw it as a long-delayed restatement of sovereignty.

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