Kesklinn

Kesklinn, meaning Central District, is one of the administrative districts (linnaosa) of Tallinn, the capital of Estonia. Located in the heart of the city, Kesklinn encompasses the historic Old Town as well as the surrounding modern commercial and administrative areas. The district serves as Tallinn’s central hub for government, business, culture, and transportation.

Geographically, Kesklinn covers the core urban area that includes the medieval town center and the more contemporary business districts. It contains landmark sites such as the Toompea hill, which houses the Estonian Parliament and several historic buildings, as well as public squares, churches, and museums. The area around Town Hall Square is a focal point for tourism and civic life. The Rotermann Quarter, a redeveloped industrial district within Kesklinn, exemplifies the mix of historic architecture and modern function that characterizes the district.

History and character: Kesklinn has long been Tallinn’s political and commercial center. Over time, its streets have evolved from medieval thoroughfares to a dense, multifunctional urban area that accommodates government offices, corporate offices, hospitality venues, retail, and cultural institutions. The district's built environment reflects layers of Tallinn’s history, from ancient city walls to contemporary architecture.

Economy and transport: As Tallinn’s central district, Kesklinn hosts a concentration of offices, hotels, shops, and cultural venues. It is a major transportation hub, with extensive public transit connections and easy access to the port and other city districts. The area is designed for high accessibility, walkability, and mixed-use resilience.

See also: Tallinn, Administrative divisions of Estonia, Old Town of Tallinn.