Tartu, Estonia’s second-largest city, has earned its reputation as the epicenter of culture and creativity in the country. As one of the European Capitals of Culture for 2024, Tartu thrives on preserving centuries-old traditions while boldly venturing into the world of modern art and innovation.
Tartu, a thriving university town, boasts a rich cultural heritage. It was the birthplace of Estonia’s first theater, witnessed the publication of its inaugural newspaper, and hosted the country’s inaugural song festival.
Aparaaditehas, a former factory complex turned into a vibrant creative space, stands as a testament to Tartu’s dynamic arts scene. This hip gathering place for artists reflects the city’s youthful and innovative spirit.
Jaan Ulst, the Programme Line Manager for Tartu 2024, describes Tartu as a “very vibrant city,” emphasizing its youthful energy.
Aparaaditehas also extends its welcome to international artists, such as Ukrainian artist Viktoria Berezina, who found refuge in Tartu after fleeing her hometown of Kherson following the Russian invasion. Berezina appreciates the city’s creative environment and the opportunity it provides to connect with fellow artists, showcase her work, and shed light on the situation in Ukraine.
While Tartu embraces modernity, the southern region of Setomaa in Estonia is a haven for preserving age-old traditions. Here, the Seto people, one of the country’s oldest ethnic groups, strive to safeguard their centuries-old way of life.
Setomaa, which straddles the border with Russia, offers a glimpse into the past. The Seto people have cultivated their unique dialect, religion, and traditions for generations, maintaining their cultural heritage with unwavering dedication.
Helen Külvik, a Setomaa tour guide, emphasizes the historical importance of oral culture among the Seto people. She describes a time when Setos relied entirely on oral traditions to pass down knowledge and stories since they were largely illiterate.
The Seto culture is deeply rooted in song, with songs for every facet of life, from work to celebrations. This oral tradition, known as Seto polyphonic singing or Leelo, has a history dating back around 2,000 years and is an integral part of the Seto cultural identity.
Before engaging in this musical tradition, participants don traditional clothing, which plays a significant role in the Seto culture. The Seto people warmly invite visitors to embrace their customs, encouraging them to try on traditional attire as a way of immersing themselves in the culture and history of the community.
One resident of Setomaa expressed their desire for visitors to learn about the region’s culture and way of life, stating, “Wearing the national costume is a way to start learning more about the culture.”
In Tartu and Setomaa, Estonia’s cultural heritage remains vibrantly alive, bridging the gap between the old and the new while inviting everyone to partake in the richness of tradition and creativity.