Page 51 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Estonia Latvia & Lithuania

A POR TRAIT OF EST ONIA 49

A PORTRAIT OF ESTONIA

Now presenting a heady mix of medieval heritage and technological advance-
ment, Estonia rebuilt itself in the post-Soviet era, adapting to the demands of
the modern world while preserving a distinct cultural identity. With its rich
historic architecture, natural landscapes and dynamic culture, the country makes
a significant impression on the ever-growing number of visitors that it attracts.

Estonia has had a tumultuous history, a Estonia is sometimes referred to as
result of its geographi cal position at a e-Estonia due to its reputation for
cross roads between Eastern and Western technological innovation, and is home
Europe. With Russia dominating its to many IT companies. It pioneered
eastern border, Scandinavia surroun ding electronic voting and Wi-Fi is available
it to the north and west and the other throughout most of the country.
two Baltic States to its south, Estonia Although the rural areas still lag behind
was considered a prize strategic asset by the cities in raising living standards,
the ruling powers in the region over Estonia has grown into a major travel
the centuries. destination. Its forests and marshlands,
After regaining independence from the pristine islands and traditional villages
Soviet Union in 1991, Estonia was left are as alluring as its capital, Tallinn, a
severely dilapidated. During the long pul sating city with a medieval Old Town.
slog towards NATO and EU membership
Society and Culture
throughout the 1990s, the country was
often held up by Eastern Europe as an In general, Estonians are more strongly
example of how to rapidly modernize influenced by Scandinavian culture than
while preserving national heri tage and by that of their Baltic neighbours. Finns
improving overall living conditions. and Estonians also share close linguistic

A typical Estonian rural scene, with the bright colours of autumn
One of the five Angla Windmills on Saaremaa Island