St. Olaf's Church, Tallinn

St. Olaf's Church, towering over the historical city of Tallinn, Estonia, is a testament to the city's rich medieval past and its prominence as a northern architectural marvel. The church, named after the Norwegian king Olaf II, was once considered the tallest building in the world during the 16th century, with its spire reaching a staggering height of 159 meters.

Constructed in the 12th century, St. Olaf's Church served as a beacon for returning ships, guiding them safely to Tallinn's harbor. Its Gothic spire, crowned with a slender tower, has dominated the skyline of Tallinn for centuries, becoming an iconic landmark and a symbol of the city's historical significance.

Despite being struck by lightning around ten times, leading to numerous rebuilds and restorations, the church has retained its awe-inspiring presence. The current height of the spire stands at 123.7 meters, a reduction from its original height due to safety regulations. Nevertheless, it remains one of the tallest churches in Europe.

The church is open to visitors, offering a chance to explore its serene interior, which is adorned with intricate woodwork and historical artifacts that reflect its long-standing history. The most adventurous tourists can climb the narrow staircase to the observation deck at the base of the spire, where they can enjoy a panoramic view of Tallinn's medieval old town and the shimmering Baltic Sea.