Estonia’s second-largest city, Tartu, has a long and fascinating history that dates back centuries. Located on the banks of the Emajõgi River, Tartu has been an important cultural and economic center for the region for centuries. Tartu has a rich and varied history, full of moments of great triumph and tragedy. From its earliest days as a Viking trading post to its modern-day status as a bustling university town, Tartu has seen it all.
Early History
The earliest known settlement in the area of modern-day Tartu dates back to the 5th century AD. The first recorded mention of Tartu is in a document from 1030, which mentions the city as "Tartu Castle". The city was an important trading post for the Vikings, who used it as a gateway to the Baltic Sea. Tartu was also an important center of the Hanseatic League, a powerful trading organization in the Middle Ages.
The city was conquered by the Teutonic Knights in 1224, and it remained under their control until the 16th century. During this time, Tartu became an important religious center, and several churches and monasteries were built. The city also became a center of education, with the University of Tartu being founded in 1632.
Modern History
Tartu experienced a period of great prosperity during the 18th and 19th centuries. The city was an important center of industry and culture, and it became a popular destination for travelers from all over Europe. The city was also an important center of the Estonian national movement, and many of the country’s most important writers and thinkers lived and worked in Tartu.
Tartu was occupied by the Soviet Union during World War II, and it remained under Soviet control until the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. Since then, the city has experienced a period of rapid growth and development. The University of Tartu has become one of the leading universities in the Baltic region, and the city is now a popular tourist destination.
Conclusion
Tartu has a long and fascinating history that spans centuries. From its earliest days as a Viking trading post to its modern-day status as a bustling university town, Tartu has seen it all. The city has been an important center of culture, education, and industry for centuries, and it continues to be a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.