» City of Tallinn

City of Tallinn

Estonia is best known for its medieval capital Tallinn, one of the best preserved medieval cities in Europe. Visitors are enchanted by the narrow winding streets, cobbled pavement and towering ramparts. Tallinn was first mentioned on a map in 1054 by an Arabian geografer.

Tallinn is the capital of the Republic of Estonia. The governing body of the city is composed of the City Council, elected by the citizens entitled to vote, and the City Government, the executive body formed by the Council. The City enjoys a good relationship with the Central Government. Post-independence reforms have given local governments both responsibilities and considerable autonomy to fulfil their obligations. The municipal budget is independent of the Central Government budget.

Tallinn, being located at the cross-roads of trade routes between the north-western part of Russia and Western Europe, is the centre of the rapidly developing Northern European business area with a population of approximately 70 million. The foundations of Tallinn’s economy are based on its traditional strengths of trade, industry and transport. The city benefits from four ports, an airport and international rail connections. Over 41% of all Estonian registered companies are located in Tallinn. Tallinn accounts for 80% of foreign owned private enterprises.