Category Archives: Europe

Tell Me All Your Secrets – Hotel Viru

The building now known as Original Sokos Hotel Viru first opened in 1972, after construction delays and a fire in one of the upper floors. Apart from being a hotel the building and its secret history plays an interesting part in the history of the city. The hotel is known for once hosting the KGB. Though,Continue reading “Tell Me All Your Secrets – Hotel Viru”

A winter’s Day in Tallinn’s Old Town

Over the years I have visited Tallinn many times thanks to it being only a short ferry ride from Helsinki. Each time visiting new places and getting to know the city that little bit more. Whatever my plans they always include a trip to its Old Town. Tallinn’s Old Town refers to its medieval regionContinue reading “A winter’s Day in Tallinn’s Old Town”

Christiania – The Troubles of a Freetown

When heading to Copenhagen I had little interest in visiting Christiania but I had heard from friends that it would be worth it, after all it is Copenhagen’s second most visited place in the city. Christiania began Forty-five years ago when the military moved out of what had been a long standing military base andContinue reading “Christiania – The Troubles of a Freetown”

St Olaf’s Church, Tallinn

St Olaf’s Church In Tallinn is thought to be from the 12th century, though the exact date is unknown. Its first written mention was  in 1267. Interestingly, it is thought that at one time, between 1549-1625, this was the tallest building in the world. More interestingly, during the Soviet Union the tower was used byContinue reading “St Olaf’s Church, Tallinn”

Tate modern

The Bankside Power Station in London is now home to the Tate Modern. At first there had been a coal fired power station in this location from 1891 but the area was developed and construction of the current building was fully completed in 1963. Between 1952-1981  the power station generated electricity for the city. The buildingContinue reading “Tate modern”