- Address: 10123, Rataskaevu 7, 10123 Tallinn, Estonia;
- Website: visittallinn.ee;
- Phone: +372 645 7777.
A cat's well is one of the most interesting and old attractions of Tallinn. A well with an unusual name was built in the XIV century in the heart of the city, but because of the poor quality of water, the townspeople did not drink because of it. They believed that there someone "lives" and he treats Tallinn with anger. Today, these beliefs have turned into interesting legends, and the well itself is an obligatory tourist site for visiting.
Legends of the Cat's Well
The first mention of the well is dated 1375 year. At the same time it is indicated that he does not do his job well. The water was stiff, because of the large content of lime. Therefore it was almost impossible to drink it. People explained the low quality of water in their own way and tried to correct the situation with the help of animals.
The first legend says that in the well lived an evil water that fed only dead cats and if it is not fed in time, then it will attack the city with morbidity and illness. Residents regularly brought him "gifts." Therefore, the well has not been used for a long time for its intended purpose.
Another legend associated with cats, says that in the well lived a wicked mermaid who purposely spoiled the water in the well and in order to cajole it, the Tallinners again chose cats. They believed that if the animals were heated in water, the mermaid would become kinder and drink water.
Thanks to these two legends, which took an honorable place among the terrible stories of Tallinn, the well was called "Cat".
Where is?
The attraction is located at the intersection of Rataskaevu and Dunkri streets. The nearest public stops are located 500 meters from it:
- bus stop «Balti jaam 6» - routes №21, 21В, 41, 41В and 114;
- bus stop «Balti jam 5» - routes №104А, 104В, 104С, 106, 106А, 106В, 150, 151, 151А, 152, 152В and 153;
- bus stop «Balti jam 1» - routes №52, 108, 109, 111, 122, 123, 126, 127, 128 and 129;
- railway station "Baltic Station".