Tallinn is under construction! The construction of a new tram line will bring changes to public transport and traffic! Read more
Favourites Map News
Visitor See & do Things to do Attractions & museums
Attractions & museums
original:
loaded:/images/placeholder.png
original:
loaded:/images/placeholder.png
original:
loaded:/images/placeholder.png
original:
loaded:/images/placeholder.png
original:
loaded:/images/placeholder.png
original:
loaded:/images/placeholder.png
original:
loaded:/images/placeholder.png
original:
loaded:/images/placeholder.png
original:
loaded:/images/placeholder.png
original:
loaded:/images/placeholder.png

    KGB prison cells

    SightsHistory
    One of the most notorious and feared pre-trial prisons operated in the basement of the building at 1 Pagari Street during the Soviet occupation. The former KGB prison cells are now open to the public. Built in 1912, the building has had a remarkable role in the recent history of Estonia. Arrested Estonian politicians, civil servants, intellectuals, veterans of the War of Independence, as well as ordinary people were beaten and tortured there. Many were then sentenced to death or imprisonment. The prison cells built in the basement have remained a symbol of communist terror to this day. Visitors can explore the basement comprised of two corridors, six prison cells, and a cell for punishment.

    Free with Tallinn Card.

    Share

    TripAdvisor® Traveler Reviews

    TripAdvisor logo tripadvisor rating 4.0 of 5

    based on 185 reviews

    • A small but tasteful exhibition of 20th century Estonian history under Soviet rule

      tripadvisor rating 5 of 5
      April 27, 2023 By jdc01

      The KGB prison cells cost us €7 entry with a student card, and although only a small museum, the exhibitions were very informative and quite moving. The museum has preserved the old prison cellar... Read more comments

    • Very moving

      tripadvisor rating 4 of 5
      April 19, 2023 By TAMAN1951

      Initially we felt a little creepy being in this place of misery but the visit is worthwhile. Take your time and read the plaques. The folders contain some of the personal stories of those... Read more comments

    • Small but moving

      tripadvisor rating 5 of 5
      October 29, 2022 By K6141ATjuliec

      A really moving museum - take time to read individual stories and also watch some of the videos as they are shocking as to what people went through, in a relatively recent portion of history.