Viru Gate is one of the 26 remaining wall towers of the original 45 towers in Tallinn, Estonia.  The gate dates from the 14th century and is the entryway leading into Old Town Tallinn.  This Old Town is one of Europe's few medieval cities still wrapped in its original defense walls.  With way over half of its city wall still standing along with  the 26 defense towers, it's easy to see how Tallinn was once Europe's best fortified city. 

Tallinn's fairy-tale Old Town is a network of cobbled streets, quiet alleyways, crooked streets and hidden courtyards hosting a treasure of medieval architecture.  It has been described as a 'pocket sized Prague' - just as beautiful and historical as Prague, yet more intimate and welcoming.  It has become very popular with tourists.

Since Independence, Estonia has embraced capitalism and new restaurants, hotels, cafes and shops are opening everyday.   Since 1997, the Old Town of Tallinn has been on UNESCO's World Heritage list.  All the most important state and church buildings from the middle ages have been preserved in their original form, as well as many citizens' and merchants residences.

Just outside Viru Gate one finds a row of beautiful flower shops.  There have always been flower vendors at this location.  Just inside Viru Gate, there is a MacDonald's.