Cheking Out Some History in Western Estonia - Lihula
Last year, around the same time, I took a trip to western Estonia since the spring weather was absolutely great. I drove about an hour and a half from the capital region to a place called Lihula. It wasn't my original plan to walk around the place, but I wanted to play disc golf because there is a course in the area.
The disc golf course was actually really bad, haha. Individual baskets were missing and so on😅 but I noticed there is a manor and the old ruins of a stronghold, so that started to interest me more than the disc golf course.
The main building was built in 1850, so it's actually not that old. Supporting buildings are mentioned to have been there since 1650.
Right next to the manor that is standing there today, there is a hill and on this hill used to be a stronghold, but today you can only find the ruins of this once spectacular place.
The memorial stone here reads this...
Here, Western and island people(Estonians) defeated the Swedish military on 8th August 1220.
The first mention of this stronghold is from 1211. In 1238, the stone stronghold was built and over the many years has had many different owners. It's been under the Danes, the Swedes, the Russians, and the Germans.
It was probably destroyed in some war, but for some reason, I don't find the info about it right now. Either way, it's been in ruins for a LONG time.
Excavations that have taken place thus far indicate that it was one of the most remarkable strongholds in the Baltic during its time.
Just a couple of photos taken in front of the manor, overlooking the Lihula town.
I don't think I had ever been there before, so it was for sure an interesting short trip to take for me!
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This place is very quiet and wonderful for strolling and reflecting on the past. Your unexpected detour during your disc golf trip is really cool! It's interesting how sometimes the unplanned discoveries can be the most fascinating.
I love hearing about the history of different places, and the story of how this location defeated the Swedish military is captivating.
Thank you for sharing this little piece of Estonian history! It inspires me to explore some of the historical sites in my region.
Glad you enjoyed the post! Its indeed interesting to explore such places and wonder what this places looked like and what went down in this time.
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The place is really historic, the ruins of the place is still there. And you got it like an autumn pictures that adds more life to the photography
Yess it is! Its early spring tho, the leaves were not yet present😃
Always it's very interesting to know about history of the places. Thanks for sharing
Yes, it absolutely is. Glad you enjoyed!
Estonia always gave me the impression of being a chill and beautiful place to return to. But no doubt its historical moments and pasts are proving lots of other things! Great visit!
A lot of history in many places and yeah a lot of it is a cluster fck and different nations owning parts of the country 😃
Your trip to western Estonia sounds like a fascinating journey into history and unexpected discoveries. Despite the disappointing disc golf course, your curiosity led you to uncover the rich past of Lihula, from the 19th-century manor to the ancient ruins of the stronghold. Your vivid descriptions bring the site’s historical significance to life, highlighting its role in battles and its long-standing presence through various rulers. This reflective and engaging account captures the beauty of exploring beyond initial plans, making history feel personal and alive.😘
I try to do more of these kinds of trips during this summer season. I have already explored most of the places in Estonia but still a lot to go
The place is perfect for solemnity. It is quiet and calm. It also feels like from a hollywood movies. I love to hear the history of the place.
Hollywood movies, havent heard that before hehe.
It felt like I was transported back in time, while I was reading through your post, and watching the photos that you've shared @greddyforce ! All the while, I was also learning about Estonia's history! I hope you had a good time visiting, as much as I enjoyed reading through this!😊
I definitely had an interesting time. Glad you enjoyed the post!
Wow considering that the main building was built in 1850, it still looks so beautiful and intact. Some buildings might be not that beautiful as this one. Finding this place called Lihula is truly an achievement. Again, this is so beautiful🤍
Pretty sure that the manor has been renovated at some point but looks well for sure.
I really love that place, really hope to visit it soon enough