Red Tower

In the charming city of Pärnu, Estonia, nestled amidst narrow streets and historic buildings, stands a remarkable medieval structure known as the Red Tower, or Punane torn in Estonian. This iconic tower, with its distinctive red-tiled roof and robust whitewashed walls, is a captivating testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage. The Red Tower is the only remaining above-ground structure from the medieval New-Pärnu city wall, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

The History of the Red Tower

The origins of the Red Tower date back to the 15th century, although the exact date of its construction remains a topic of debate among historians. Some believe that it was built in the mid-14th century alongside the New-Pärnu city wall, while others argue that the round towers at the city's eastern corners were constructed around 1520 during extensive fortification works. Regardless of its precise origins, the Red Tower has stood the test of time, bearing witness to centuries of change and development in Pärnu.

Historically, the Red Tower was strategically located at the southeastern corner of the city wall, supported by smaller horseshoe-shaped towers on the eastern and southern walls. A 1701 city plan reveals that three towers, including the Red Tower, remained on the eastern side of the city. The tower's design is characterized by its circular base, constructed from bricks and fieldstones, with walls up to 2.3 meters thick on the ground floor. Originally a four-story structure, only three floors have survived to the present day, with the fourth floor likely having been an open platform.

A Multifaceted Past

The Red Tower's history is as varied as it is fascinating. In 1543, it was referred to as the Red or Prison Tower (Rode vagen thorn), indicating its use as a prison. The tower's robust construction made it a suitable, though not escape-proof, detention facility. Despite efforts to reinforce the tower with multiple layers of wooden beams and strengthened hinges, the standalone nature of the tower and the presence of numerous private houses nearby made effective surveillance challenging. Consequently, the tower was deemed unsuitable for use as a prison by the late 19th century, and a new state prison was constructed in 1892.

Following its stint as a prison, the Red Tower found new life as an archival repository. In 1893, the Pärnu City Council appointed Theodor Czernay, the former director of the local gymnasium, as the city archivist, and the tower was repurposed to house the city archives. Despite extensive renovations, including masonry, stove, and carpentry work, the tower's persistent dampness eventually necessitated the relocation of the archives to a more suitable location in 1908.

The Red Tower Today

In modern times, the Red Tower has served various purposes, including as an archive for different institutions and even as a meeting place for scouts. Today, it is under the ownership of the Pärnu City Government and has been transformed into a visitor center operated by the Pärnu Museum. Since November 2020, the tower has housed an innovative circular panorama cinema that showcases a ten-minute animated film about the history of the Pärnu region, with a particular focus on the medieval New-Pärnu city. This unique attraction provides visitors with an immersive experience, bringing the past to life within the ancient walls of the tower.

Architectural Features

The architectural features of the Red Tower are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The tower's circular plan, with a diameter ranging from 9.7 to 10.4 meters, provided a sturdy and defensible structure. The ground floor, with its 2.3-meter-thick walls, served as a storage room or prison, while the upper floors, accessible via a masonry staircase, were equipped with firing slits for defensive purposes. The second floor features three firing slits, while the third floor has two, with wall thicknesses decreasing as one ascends the tower.

In 1783, the tower underwent significant alterations under the direction of architect J. H. Heyer. These renovations included the closure of the masonry staircase, the installation of stoves, and the construction of a vaulted ceiling on the third floor. An extension with a mantel chimney was also added to the courtyard, further enhancing the tower's functionality.

Visiting the Red Tower

Visiting the Red Tower is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the medieval past of Pärnu. As you approach the tower, the sight of its conical red-tiled roof rising above the surrounding buildings is both striking and evocative. Stepping inside, you are transported back to an era of knights and fortifications, with the tower's thick walls and narrow windows providing a tangible connection to the past.

The circular panorama cinema is a highlight of any visit, offering a dynamic and engaging way to learn about the history of the region. The ten-minute animated film provides an overview of the development of New-Pärnu, with the Red Tower as a central landmark in the city's story. This innovative use of technology within a historic setting creates a memorable and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

In conclusion, the Red Tower is not just a historic monument; it is a symbol of Pärnu's enduring spirit and rich heritage. Its walls have witnessed centuries of change, from medieval fortifications to modern-day museum exhibits. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, the Red Tower offers a unique and captivating glimpse into the past, making it an essential stop on any tour of Pärnu.