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Parks #25 in Tallinn

Danish King's Garden

4.7 · 2,896 reviews
Atmospheric and historical
Danish King's Garden, Lühike jalg 9, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia
Interesting facts
1

The name 'Dannebrog' comes from the Danish flag, which legend says appeared here to aid King Valdemar II during a 13th-century battle.

2

The three monk statues were installed in 2015 to represent the mystical history of the area.

3

The garden sits on the slopes of Toompea Hill, which was the historical seat of power for foreign rulers in Estonia.

4

The defensive wall bordering the garden includes a connection to the Kiek in de Kök fortification museum system.

5

The site hosts an annual Dannebrog Day celebration every June 15th to commemorate the flag's origins.

Overview

The Danish King's Garden is a historic park in Tallinn's Old Town, traditionally recognized as the location where the Danish flag, the Dannebrog, reportedly fell from the sky during the Battle of Lyndanisse in 1219. The site is physically defined by its location between the upper and lower town, flanked by the defensive walls of the Tallinn City Wall. It features three headless monk sculptures, known as 'The Three Monks,' created by sculptor Aime Kuulbusch. The garden provides direct access to the Maiden's Tower, the Stable Tower, and the Gate Tower, which now function as a museum complex. Visitors can traverse the rampart walkway that connects these towers. The park is characterized by its tiered limestone terraces and views overlooking the lower town rooftops. It serves as a symbolic point of connection between Estonian and Danish history.

Photo spot

From the upper terrace looking down toward the three monk sculptures with the city walls and spires in the background.

Insider tips

Access the park via the narrow Lühike jalg street to appreciate the transition from the lower town to the hill.

Walk the upper viewing platform to capture a clear perspective of the church spires in the lower city.

Combine your visit with the Kiek in de Kök fortification museum, which is accessible via the adjacent towers.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to climb the historical limestone walls, as they are fragile and pose a safety risk.

Good to know

Open daily throughout the year, though the rampart walkways connecting the towers may close during extreme winter weather or private events.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
30-45 minutes
Best time to visit
Early morning or late evening; the space is small and can become crowded with cruise ship tour groups during midday.
Address
Danish King's Garden, Lühike jalg 9, 10130 Tallinn, Estonia
59.436, 24.741
Get directions
Details
Historical markersBirthplace of the Danish flag (Dannebrog)
SculpturesThree headless monks

Frequently asked

Plan for about 30-45 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning or late evening; the space is small and can become crowded with cruise ship tour groups during midday..

From the upper terrace looking down toward the three monk sculptures with the city walls and spires in the background.

Close by you'll find Vabaduse väljak, Viru Gate, Tallinn Town Hall.