St. Nicholas' Orthodox Church, Tallinn

Saint Nicholas Church stands as a historic former church situated in Tallinn. It was originally devoted to Saint Nicholas, revered as the patron saint of fishermen and sailors. This architectural gem, dating back to the 13th century, endured partial destruction during the Soviet bombing of Tallinn in World War II. Subsequently, concerted efforts were made to restore it, and today, it serves as the home to the Niguliste Museum, a branch under the umbrella of the Art Museum of Estonia. The museum's primary focus is on ecclesiastical art spanning from the Middle Ages onwards.

The church's origins trace back to the years 1230 to 1275 when it was founded and constructed by Westphalian merchants who arrived from Gotland in the 13th century. At the time, Tallinn lacked fortifications, prompting the church to incorporate heavy bars to secure entrances, as well as openings and concealed areas for sheltering refugees. However, as Tallinn's fortifications were completed in the 14th century, with the town wall encompassing the church and settlement in 1310, Saint Nicholas Church relinquished its defensive role and transformed into a typical medieval parish church.

Between 1405 and 1420, the church underwent alterations, resulting in its present-day appearance. The central aisle was elevated to include a clerestory above the side aisles, adopting the architectural style known as a basilica. In 1515, the tower was extended in height and crowned with a late-Gothic spire. During the late 17th century, efforts were made to fortify and reinforce the tower. The original spire was replaced with a Baroque spire featuring airy galleries, which was gradually heightened over the course of several centuries. Presently, the tower stands at an impressive height of 105 meters (344.5 feet).

Remarkably, Saint Nicholas Church retained its original character amidst the iconoclastic fervor brought about by the Protestant Reformation in 1523. The church's congregation took measures to protect it by sealing its locks with molten lead, thwarting the efforts of those seeking to deface or damage it.