10 Nicknames for “Tallinn”
Did you know Tallinn has a huge number of alternative names? What if I told you you live in Lindanisa? :)
From ancient derivations to modern nicknames, each name of Tallinn serves as a historical fragment, offering insights into its varied past and modern evolution!
Here are some notable names the city has been known by and the stories they tell:
Historical Names
1. Kolyvan
This is one of the most ancient names associated with Tallinn (since 1223), mentioned in Russian chronicles. Thought to originate from the myth of Kaleva, which as per Wikipedia: ‘In Estonian stories, sons of Kalev were originally considered royalty. In Finnish stories, however, they are more often referred to as giants who built several castles and lived in various regions of Finland. In both cases, they are often blamed for oddities in nature, such as strangely large or weird stones.’
2. Lindanisa
This name appears in Danish chronicles, as the Danes played a significant role in the city's early history following their invasion in the 13th century. It’s speculated that the name could be derived from a place that traded in lime.
Battle of Lindanise (Tallinn) ca. 1219, By Christian August Lorentzen - Statens Museum for Kunst
3. Reval
Widely recognized and used especially during periods of Hanseatic League prominence and later under German influence (from the 13th to the 20th century), "Reval" is a name that resonated through most of the city's medieval period. The origin of the name is unclear, though some suggest it could derive from the medieval county of Rävala where the city is located.
Port of Reval in 1853, By Alexey Bogolyubov - Self-photographed, Villem Lüüs, 22 February 2012, Public Domain
4. Quwri
In 1154, the Tabula Rogeriana mentioned a town called (Qlwn or Quwri), described by Muhammad al-Idrisi as "a small town resembling a large castle" among 'Astlanda's towns. Some suggest 'Qlwn' might be an early form of modern Tallinn, but historians generally reject this idea as speculative.
5. Rafala
This is coming from Icelandic countries, and it was probably a revisitation of Rävala/Reval, a name we already have seen above.
Modern Names
1. Tallinn
Adopted officially in the 1918 and subsequently reaffirmed upon Estonia's independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, "Tallinn" is derived from "Taani linn", meaning "Danish castle". This modern name not only acknowledges its historical roots with the Danish conquest but also marks its evolution from a Danish stronghold to a vibrant independent city.
2. Pealinn
Translating to "capital city" in Estonian, this is a functional, colloquial nickname that places emphasis on Tallinn’s status as the political and cultural heart of Estonia. Less historical in flavor, this name is straightforward, emphasizing the city's current primary significance.
3. The Silicon Valley of Europe
This modern nickname reflects Tallinn's rapid development in the technology sector. The city has become a hub for startups and technological innovation, much like Silicon Valley in the United States, highlighting its role in the digital advancements within Europe.
4. The Medieval Pearl
Owing to its well-preserved medieval town center, Tallinn is often romantically referred to as "The Medieval Pearl." This nickname is popular among tourists and locals alike, underscoring its architectural beauty and historical value which continue to charm those who wander its ancient streets.
5. Gem of the Baltic
This is a nickname that reflects the city's charm, beauty, and cultural significance. Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval Old Town, which features cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and picturesque squares. Its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere make it a standout destination in the Baltic region
Each of these names and nicknames encapsulates different aspects of Tallinn's identity, from its geographical features and historical conquests to its modern-day advancements. This variety not only illustrates the rich tapestry of influences that have shaped this city but also its continuing evolution as a dynamic European capital. Whether you call it Reval, Kolyvan, or simply Tallinn, each name opens a different chapter in the fascinating historical narrative of this beautiful Baltic city.
