Peeking into the Kitchen

Peeking into the Kitchen

The name of this 38-meter-high Kiek in de Kök tower means “0 Kitchen,” an old German nickname. It is part of Tallinn’s Old Town defensive fortifications. Due to its height, medieval guards jokingly claimed they could see into the kitchens of the neighboring houses below.

The “0 Kitchen” turret was originally built in 1470 and was rapidly expanded and reinforced, resulting in walls as thick as 4 meters. That investment paid off: during the Livonian War in the late 16th century, Ivan’s army blew a massive hole in the uppermost level, but the tower still stood firm. During post-war repairs, a row of four cannonballs was placed in front of the newly patched stone wall as a war memorial — visitors can still see them on the tower’s southeastern side today.

Nowadays, the interior of the “0 Kitchen” tower houses a museum showcasing medieval weapons, detailing the development of Tallinn’s Old Town walls and artillery towers over the centuries, along with an exhibition on crime and punishment. It also serves as a hidden entrance to the underground passages of the ancient fortress on the southern side of Toompea Hill.

Kiek in de Kök

Must-visit reason: One of the most impressive ancient towers in Tallinn

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Estonia[Estonia]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Harju County [Harju County]

City where the attraction is located: Tallinn [Tallinn]