The Bishopric of Ösel-Wiek was formed in 1228, and after the seat moved from Lihula and Perona, Haapsalu became the center. Construction continued for about three centuries. Under Johannes IV Kievel, from 1515 to 1527, the castle covered over 320,000 square feet (30,000 m²), with walls 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 m) thick and over 33 feet (10 m) high. The western watchtower is 95 feet (29 m) tall.
The Dome Church was built in 1260 in the transition from Romanesque to Gothic, with three star vaults. The article calls it the biggest single-naved church in the Baltic countries. A round baptistery was added in the second half of the 14th century.
The Livonian War damaged the castle, and Peter I ordered partial demolition in 1710. In 1944 vandals destroyed the altar and organ. Under Soviet rule the church was used for storage. The article gives no visiting arrangements.
Comments