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Church of the Holy Spirit (Puhavaimu Kirik)
Estonia Phone: +372 644 1487About
The Church of the Holy Spirit holds a special place in Estonian cultural history. It was the first congregation that started holding services in the Estonian language (1531). Johann Koell, the pastor at the time, is the author of the oldest known book in Estonian. Together with Simon Wanradt (from Niguliste - St Nicholas' Church) he compiled a short cathecism in Estonian and German. The book was published in 1535. The church building dates back to the beginning of 13th century, and served as an almshouse church as well as chapel for the city magistrate. In art history, the building is often referred to as a "museum of styles". Indeed, it exhibits well-preserved architectural elements and artefacts from different periods.
