Pärnu Red Tower – Museum and 360° Cinema

Built in the 15th century at the southeastern corner of the city wall, the Red Tower was part of the medieval fortifications of Uus-Pärnu and served as the city prison for many years. It is the only surviving defensive tower of the Hanseatic city 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 the museum’s permanent exhibition and presenting the story of the former prison tower and medieval Pärnu. On the tower’s attic floor, a 10-minute animated film about the history of the area, “A Ruthless and Merciful History: 15,000 Years in the Red Tower,” is shown in an innovative 360° cinema. At its centre is a view from the visitor’s location, spanning the Ice Age to the present day. The film shows geographical changes in the area and the city’s development, and takes viewers into the midst of fascinating historical events.

The ticket includes a 360° cinema screening and, if desired, a short introduction to the history of the Red Tower by a museum staff member.

http://www.parnumuuseum.ee/torn

PLEASE NOTE:
- The Red Tower courtyard can be reached through the gate on Hommiku Street. From the open gate you can see the courtyard gallery and tower; please come in.
- Only a limited number of people can fit in the small tower at one time. Tickets therefore allow a stay of 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 ensure the Red Tower’s fascinating stories are not overlooked, we also recommend that groups book a guided visit programme.
- The medieval tower’s architecture 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.

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