Pärnu Red Tower – Museum and Circular Panorama Cinema

Built in the 15th century at the southeastern corner of the town wall, the Red Tower was part of the fortifications of medieval Uus-Pärnu and served as the town prison for many years. It is the only surviving defensive tower of the Hanseatic town of Uus-Pärnu and the oldest surviving building in Pärnu. Since the end of 2020, the Red Tower has housed a branch of Pärnu Museum complementing its permanent exhibition, where visitors can learn about the former prison tower and medieval Pärnu. On the tower’s attic floor, a modern circular panorama cinema screens a 10-minute animated film about local history, “A Ruthless and Merciful History: 15,000 Years in the Red Tower”. At its centre is the view from the visitor’s location, from the Ice Age to the present day. The film shows geographical changes in the area and the development of the town, and takes viewers into the midst of fascinating historical events. The ticket includes a circular panorama cinema screening and, if desired, a brief introduction to the history of the Red Tower by a museum staff member.

http://www.parnumuuseum.ee/torn

PLEASE NOTE THAT...

... The courtyard of the Red Tower is accessed through the gate on Hommiku Street. From the open gate you can see the courtyard gallery and the tower—feel free to enter.

... Only a limited number of people can fit in the small tower at one time. Therefore, a purchased ticket allows you to stay in the tower for up to 30 minutes.

... If more than 10 people are planning to visit the tower at the same time, please contact us in advance. To make sure the Red Tower’s fascinating stories don’t go unnoticed, we recommend that groups also book a tour programme.

... The architecture of this medieval tower places significant limits on accessibility. Before buying a ticket, please make sure that the narrow, steep stairs and high thresholds will not prevent you from visiting the Red Tower.

Contact us: visit@pernau.ee, +372 443 3488 (during the tower’s opening hours)