Maasilinnus

Western Estonia & the Islands


The German knights built this castle, 4km north of Orissaare, during the 14th to 16th centuries and using the forced labour of the conquered locals. It was blown up by the Danes in 1578 to prevent the Swedes from taking it, leaving behind a jumble of stones by a pretty reed-lined shore. Indulge your inner archaeologist by exploring the restored underground chamber.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Western Estonia & the Islands attractions

1. Orissaare Oak

1.95 MILES

Even in a nation where people still leave offerings in sacred groves, Orissaare's most famous landmark is, well, a little weird. Winner of the 2015…

2. Muhu Museum

2.2 MILES

Koguva is an exceptionally well preserved, traditional Muhu village, now protected as an open-air museum. One ticket allows you to wander through an old…

3. Koguva Kunstitall

2.23 MILES

Local craft and artworks adorn the walls and shelves of this meticulously restored thatched longhouse in Koguva.

4. Muhu Ostrich Farm

4.41 MILES

This working ostrich farm is a decent diversion for families, with opportunities to feed the birds, learn about their habits and buy feather dusters, eggs…

5. St Mary’s Church

4.61 MILES

Pöide, 3km south of the main highway, was the Saaremaa headquarters of the German Knights of the Sword and this fortress-church, built in the 13th and…

6. Muhu Stronghold

4.73 MILES

Immediately southwest of the Eemu windmill, this earthen ring draped in greenery is where in 1227 the pagan Estonians made their last stand, holding off a…

7. St Catherine's Lutheran Church, Karja

11.59 MILES

The pagan and Christian meet in this fortress-like 14th-century church. Outside there’s an interesting panel about pre-Christian symbols with particular…

8. Angla Windmill Hill

12.66 MILES

Charge up those camera batteries: this is the site of the largest and most photogenic grouping of wooden windmills on the islands. By the early 16th…

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