ülemineke

Ulemineke refers to a type of manor in Estonian history, specifically in the context of the Lutheran Church in the 17th and 18th centuries. These manors were owned and operated by German-speaking aristocrats who were predominantly Lutheran, often inhabiting the Estonian coastal regions. Unlike other manors, ulemineke were typically smaller in size and often served as the official residences of Lutheran pastors.

As the Lutheran Church developed in Estonia, these manors provided essential support to the church's clergy, offering them housing and financial assistance. Many of these manors were built or renovated during this period to serve as hubs for church administration and educational activities. The pastors or vicars, who inhabited these manors, played significant roles in disseminating Lutheran teachings, managing educational programs, and supporting local church activities.

Ulemineke manors varied in appearance and character, influenced by the architectural styles prevalent at the time, including Baroque and Rococo. Some of these manors, particularly those located along the coastal regions, featured intricate designs that reflected the wealth and power of their German-speaking owners. However, with the spread of Enlightenment and the secularization of church property, the significance and purpose of these manors began to shift, leading to their eventual decline or assimilation into other types of estates.