Why did medieval Tallinn become so wealthy? The Splendour of the Hanseatic League: How Wealth Was Made in the Middle Ages explores that question inside the Great Guild Hall, the historic home of the city’s merchants.
Inside the exhibition
Follow a merchant’s world of trade, money and connections across northern Europe. The exhibition considers Tallinn, Tartu and Riga within a network linking markets as far apart as London and Novgorod. Salt, textiles, ceramics, furs and wax help tell the story of the goods that travelled through these ports.
Displays include archaeological discoveries and rare objects on loan from Hamburg and Riga. Alongside the goods themselves, discover the practical skills merchants needed: calculating prices, handling different currencies and measures, and keeping track of ships and distant markets. The exhibition is curated by Krista Sarv and Ivar Leimus.
Plan your visit
- Dates: 28 May 2025–10 January 2027, according to Visit Tallinn’s event listing.
- Venue: Estonian History Museum — Great Guild Hall, Pikk 17, Tallinn Old Town.
- Opening hours: Wednesday–Sunday, 10:00–18:00 during the October–March season. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Check the museum for holiday exceptions before travelling.
- Admission: €14 adult, €9 student, €28 family, as listed by Visit Tallinn. Admission is free with the Tallinn Card. Check eligibility and current prices with the museum.
Guided tours and access
The museum lists a one-hour exhibition tour for groups of up to 25, with options in Estonian, English, Russian and Finnish. Book at least five days ahead; museum admission is charged separately. See the guided-tour information and booking form.
The nearest bus stop is Balti jaam. The museum identifies a lift entrance from Börsi passage to the building’s ground level; contact the museum to confirm access to the exhibition rooms for your needs.
Official exhibition information · Museum visitor information · Visit Tallinn event listing
Enquiries: post@ajaloomuuseum.ee. Tours: tellimus@ajaloomuuseum.ee.
Featured image: Estonian History Museum, from its official exhibition page. Visitor information checked 20 October 2026.
Reader comments
Join the conversation
No comments yet.