IAPL2012-CB-0531-052.. - The International Association for ...

SPECIAL EVENTS
POST-CONFERENCE EXCURSION TO THE CITY OF TARTU
AND THE ESTONIAN LITERARY MUSEUM
SUNDAY, 3 JUNE
09:00-23:45
CITY OF TARTU
Tartu (also known as Dorpat or Yuryev) is the second largest city in Estonia with a
population of 100,000. It is a Hanseatic city and a university town. Dating back to
1030, it is the oldest city in Estonia. Tartu is 185 km south-east of Tallinn, in the
center of Estonia. The Emajõgi River, which connects the two largest lakes of Estonia,
flows for the length of 10 km within the city limits. Being a student town, English is
widely understood. As usual, the older people are more likely to only speak Estonian
and Russian; however most can understand English if you speak clearly.
THE UNIVERSITY OF TARTU HISTORY MUSEUM
The UT History Museum showcases the history of science and university education in
Tartu from the 17th century to the present day.
The museum is located on Toome Hill, which has also been poetically described as an
abode of the muses. Here the museum occupies several historical university buildings
dating from the 19th century - the former university library built in the choir of the
ruins of a former dome cathedral, the Old Observatory and part of the Old Anatomical
Theatre (closed until the end of 2012).
The museum offers the public a permanent exhibition and numerous special exhibitions.
From spring to autumn, visitors can enjoy a magnificent view of the city from the
viewing platforms situated on the top of the preserved bases of the cathedral’s
towers. The museum also holds classes for school students, helping them acquire new
knowledge through hands-on experience. The museum’s collection, which is one of a
kind in Estonia, is available to scholars and researchers. The museum’s White Hall is one
of the most prestigious event venues in Tartu.
\
The University of Tartu History Museum is part of a larger university institution -
Museums of the University of Tartu, which also includes the university’s Art Museum
and Natural History Museum. All three cooperate closely with one another.
97