kõrvalekalleteni

Kõrvalekalleteni is a small district within the city of Tallinn, the capital of Estonia. The name derives from the Estonian words “kõrval” meaning “side” and “Ekalteni”, a historic manor name that once stood on the hill overlooking the surrounding area. The district is part of the northern administrative subregion and falls under the jurisdiction of the Lasnamäe district council.

Geographically, Kõrvalekalleteni occupies an area of approximately 0.8 square kilometres. It is bounded by the Pirita River to the east and the Tallinn–Narva railway line to the west. The terrain is largely flat, with well-developed green spaces that include a small park and a nature trail that follows the former corridor of the 19th‑century railway. As of the 2022 census, the population density is roughly 1,200 inhabitants per square kilometre, with a demographic mix that includes families, commuters, and a small number of student residents due to its proximity to the Tallinn University of Technology campus.

The district’s history dates back to the early 18th century, when it was part of the estate of the Ekalteni family. In the late 19th century the construction of the Tallinn–Narva railway prompted modest industrial growth, and by the early 20th century a small textile factory operated on the outskirts. After World War II, the area was incorporated into the expanding city limits of Tallinn, and the factory was repurposed as a municipal community centre.

Today, Kõrvalekalleteni is primarily residential, with a mix of single‐family homes and multi‑unit apartment blocks. Local commercial activity is centred on the main thoroughfare, which hosts a handful of grocery shops, a post office, and a small health clinic. The district also benefits from its proximity to recreational facilities in neighbouring Lasnamäe, including an arena and a sports complex.

Culturally, Kõrvalekalleteni hosts an annual summer festival that celebrates its historic roots, featuring traditional Estonian music, folk dances, and a 16th‑century style reconstruction of the original manor hall. The festival draws visitors from across Tallinn and serves as a community focal point for both residents and tourists.