Unique Environment
Modern study environment in a historic atmosphere
While today's students enjoy modern and very well-equipped lecture halls, laboratories, and classrooms, many of the university buildings go back centuries, creating a unique and harmonious blend of old and new. The University History Museum resides in a 13th-century cathedral. The University Main Building, built in 1804-1809, is a historic monument and a dominant landmark on the town landscape.
Academic spirit since 1632
Ever since the establishment of Academia Gustaviana, Tartu has become an international hub for academics, scientists, and students from all over Northern Europe. The University of Tartu has been a springboard for generations of Estonian intelligentsia, researchers and leaders. The 19th-century Estonian National Awakening drew its ranks from the University of Tartu. Citizens of Tartu strongly believe that everyone who arrives in Tartu is taken over by what they call the "spirit of Tartu".
Unique university town with a young population
Tartu has a population of only 100,000 people, and a fifth of its residents are students of higher education. Besides the University of Tartu, Tartu is also home to the Estonian University of Life Sciences, the Baltic Defence College and several other education institutions. When coupled together with high school students and children, at least 30% of the town's population is comprised of young people.
Intellectual capital of Estonia
With so many higher education institutions in town, and the university's status as the national centre of science and research, Tartu inevitably attracts a lot of talent and innovation from Estonia and abroad. Tartu and the University of Tartu serve as a base for the Tartu Science Park and many research institutes. Tartu hosts a numerous conferences throughout year.
Historic, picturesque town
The first historic mention of Tartu dates back to 1030 and the city contains a rich cultural heritage to explore. Citizens and visitors to Tartu enjoy access to almost 40 museums and galleries and a dozen concert halls. Tartu has many parks and is located on the banks of the Emajõgi River, which flows through the city centre. In 2004 UNICEF awarded Tartu the title of "Child-Friendly City".
Cool country with a warm heart
Estonia is the smallest and northernmost of the three Baltic countries and has often been regarded as a bridge between East and West. It is known as a country of 1500 islands and 1000 lakes. It is unique in Europe for its wilderness: 50% of its territory is covered with forests, bogs and wetlands. Estonian summers can get quite hot and boast of the famous white nights when the sun only sets for a few hours.
Positive surprises
A lot of visitors indeed are positively surprised by the transformation that has taken place since Estonia regained its independence in 1991, after the famous "Singing Revolution". It is a modern European society, with innovative solutions penetrating everyday life. It is the birthplace of Skype, and our e-government, e-parking and e-lections have created a reputation for E-stonia. Free wireless Internet is available to all visitors arriving at Tallinn's international airport. Most of the Tartu city centre has free wireless access.