Submitted by Triinu
on
This blog post was written by our student ambassador Ana, who is a student of the semiotics programme at the University of Tartu.
Tartu... Always in My Heart and Memories: Saying Goodbye to Tartu and Reliving the Best Moments Tartu… “The City of Good Thoughts,” “Student City,” “Cultural Capital of Estonia” — these are just some of the epithets that describe this majestic and inspiring city. In this blog, I will share my life and adventures in Tartu to showcase the beauty and spirit of this wonderful place to all new and upcoming students at the University of Tartu. I recently relocated from Tartu to Keila due to work, but Tartu will always hold a special place in my heart and memories. I hope you enjoy this blog and fall in love with Tartu just as I did.
Four Years of Love, Joy, and Adventure
I moved to Tartu four years ago for my studies. I will never forget my first day there — I was super excited but also nervous. First, I crossed the Kaarsild (Arch Bridge), which led me to Raekoja Plats. I stopped in front of the Fountain of Kissing Students, the iconic landmark of Tartu, and then... I heard it — the melody of the Tartu City Hall carillon, the beautiful and harmonic sounds of bells echoing through the entire town. I felt like Tartu itself was telling me through the bells: Welcome! This is your new home! From that moment, I wasn’t scared anymore. Tartu became a part of me. I experienced the soul and spirit of Tartu through countless walks, museum visits, and quiet moments in the forest or along the Emajõgi River. I will never forget my first walk on Toomemägi (Toome Hill), learning about its popular landmarks — the Angel’s Bridge (when you cross it for the first time while holding your breath, be ready to make a wish), the Devil’s Bridge on the opposite side, and the famous ruins of St. Thomas´s Church. Tartu also taught me a lot about its culture and rich history through its many museums and guided tours. My two favorite museums are the University of Tartu Museum and the Tartu Art Museum (the well-known leaning house). I highly recommend everyone visit them! The districts and streets of Tartu each have their own story: the colorful streets of Supilinn near the Emajõgi shore, where I lived for two years and loved roller skating and admiring the glorious sunsets and white nights during summer; the artistic corners of Karlova; and my favorite hangout spot — Jänese Matkarada (The Rabbit Hiking Trail) — a set of forest paths along the Emajõgi River where I often went for relaxing, mind-clearing walks. Yes, Tartu truly is a fairy tale full of surprises, adventures, and unforgettable experiences. Even though I no longer live in Tartu, Tartu lives in me. I am deeply grateful for everything this city has given me and for making me stronger and more confident to face any challenge. I hope you enjoy reading my blog and that you’ll create your own adventures and stories in this wonderful town.
Find out which are available for you in Estonia.
Read more blog posts: