Places to visit in Haapsalu

Arts & culture

Haapsalu Lace Centre

The Haapsalu Lace Centre is a craft centre on Karja Street that introduces the tradition of making the famous Haapsalu shawl. Here you can see fine lace patterns, old handmade items and work by contemporary craftspeople. Haapsalu lace knitting developed in the 19th century, and its skills have been passed down from generation to generation. The centre has an exhibition area and a selection of craft supplies and shawls; when possible, you can also learn about knitting techniques. The place complements the old town's historic sights with living local cultural heritage.

Karja tn 25, Haapsalu

Arts & culture

Haapsalu City Gallery

Haapsalu City Gallery is on Posti Street in the Haapsalu Cultural Centre building and presents contemporary Estonian art. Its spacious, light-filled rooms host changing exhibitions featuring painting, printmaking, photography and other art forms. The gallery aims to enrich Haapsalu's art scene and bring work by both local artists and those from further afield to the town. The exhibition programme changes throughout the year, so every visit may offer a different experience. The City Gallery is an exhibition space within the cultural centre, and visits depend on the gallery's published exhibition schedule.

Posti tn 3, Haapsalu

Arts & culture

Haapsalu Art School Galleries

Haapsalu Art School Galleries are on Jaani Street in Haapsalu's Old Town and offer a chance to see work by young and professional artists. The art school uses its house, courtyard and cellar galleries for exhibitions, and their opening depends on the season and the exhibition programme. Displays change and may include paintings, drawings and other art forms. The galleries are linked to the school's teaching, but the exhibitions are also meant for visitors to the town. They are a separate venue from the City Gallery on Posti Street. Admission to the exhibitions is free, and it is worth checking the art school's current programme before you come.

Indicative price: Free admission

Jaani tn 2, Haapsalu

Arts & culture

Vormsi Cemetery

Vormsi Cemetery is located in Hullo village on Vormsi Island, next to the Church of St. Olaf. In the older part of the cemetery, over 330 limestone and sandstone ring crosses have been preserved, reflecting the heritage of the island's coastal Swedes. There are also other historical grave markers; the oldest gravestone dates back to 1743. In the churchyard, memorial stones commemorate the Estonian-Swedish cultural figure Hans Pöhli and the missionary Österblom. Outside the churchyard stands a freedom monument that remained in its place even during the Soviet era. When walking in the cemetery, it should be noted that it is still a peaceful memorial site.

Kiriku, Hullo küla, Vormsi vald, Lääne maakond