St. Catherine’s Passage is a quaint alley in the Old Town of Tallinn, dating back to medieval times. It takes its name from the ruins of St. Catherine’s Church on the northern side of the passage. Appreciate the old-world feel generated by the cobbled path and the crumbling walls of this iconic passage.
Stop for an outdoor lunch at one of the restaurants and cafés along the alley. Watch people go by and imagine the street as it was several centuries ago. This pathway has a particular atmosphere, combining its fashionable restaurants and studios with a medieval look. Note the tombstones that line one of the walls, adding an eerie feel to the setting.
Browse the intriguing trinkets for sale in the charming studios that are part of the St. Catherine’s Guild craft workshops. On display in these small, open shops, some of which date back to the 15th century, are ceramics, jewelry, hand-painted silk, hats and other artisanal gems.
Watch your head as you enter these old-world “caves” and see the artists at work in their distinctive trades, including pottery-crafting, weaving or glass-blowing. Purchase leather handbags, intriguing statues and fine quilts among the high-quality items.
At the southern end of the pathway is the iconic Wool Wall. Exit the passage via the low stone arch and haggle with vendors in the countless stalls selling knitted garments in front of the medieval wall.
St. Catherine’s Passage is in the heart of the Old Town of Tallinn district in the center of the city. It connects the roads of Vene and Müürivahe. Take a bus or ride a tram to one of the many stops on the edge of the Old Town area and walk for a few minutes to get here. Visit other attractions in the area, such as the Museum of Medieval Torture Instruments, the Tallinn Town Hall and the Dominiiklaste Kloostri Museum.
