Haapsalu Castle (Haapsalu)

 castle, Gothic (architecture), Medieval / Middle Ages, interesting place, listed building / architectural heritage

Haapsalu Castle (also Haapsalu Episcopal Castle, Estonian: Haapsalu piiskopilinnus) is a castle with cathedral in Haapsalu, western Estonia. It was founded in the thirteenth century to be a center for Bishopric of Ösel-Wiek. When there is a full moon in the month of August, it is said that an image of a maiden, the White Lady, appears on the inner wall of the chapel.

Haapsalu Castle is an architectural gem built in the 13th century, which until the end of the 17th century was the seat of power of the local authorities. This is one of the best-preserved castles in Estonia and home to the most famous ghost in Estonia – the White Lady! There is a museum on medieval history in the main castle, through which you can also get to the southern cathedral, first mentioned in writing in 1279. There is a children’s playground inspired by the Middle Ages in the moat.
You can visit the courtyard for free, but you have to buy a ticket to get to the museum.