Haapsalu

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Haapsalu linn

Image:Haapsalu flag.png	Image:Haapsalu coatofarms.png
Flag	Coat of arms

County

Läänemaa

Mayor

Teet Kallasvee

Area

10.59 km²

Population (as of 2004)
- Density

11,876
1,121.4/km²

Coordinates

58°57′ N 23°32′ E

Location of Haapsalu

Haapsalu (German and Swedish: Hapsal; Russian: Хаапсалу, formerly Гапсаль) is a resort town on the west coast of Estonia. It has been well-known for centuries for its warm seawater, curative mud and peaceful atmosphere. Narrow streets with early twentieth century wooden houses lead to the sea again and again. Haapsalu has been called the "Nordic Venice" due to this plentitude of water.^{[citation needed]}

[edit] History

The town dates back to 1279, when it was chartered and became the centre of the Bishopric of Ösel-Wiek, which it remained for the next 300 years. Buildings from those early days remain today, including an episcopal castle which has the largest single-nave cathedral in the Baltic states, Haapsalu Castle.

For many years, locals have claimed that the sea mud has a curative effect. A military doctor, Carl Abraham Hunnius, founded the first mud cure resort in 1825. News of the curative mud quickly reached the aristocracy of St. Petersburg, the capital of the Russian Empire. Ever since then, Haapsalu has been a popular summer destination where people from all around the world come for medical treatment. Today, there are three mud cure establishments in Haapsalu varying in size and location.

In the 19th century, Haapsalu became famous for its shawls, a delicate craft made by local women. The Land of Ilon Wikland (Wiklandia), a recreation centre for children, is set to open in a few years within the town. This world famous book illustrator has been involved with Haapsalu since her childhood. The August Blues Festival is held every August in Haapsalu.

[edit] Gallery

Aerial view of Haapsalu

House in which Peter I of Russia supposedly stayed in 1715.

[edit] External links

Image:Laanemaa coatofarms.png

Municipalities of Lääne County

Urban municipality:	Haapsalu
Rural municipalities:	Hanila \| Kullamaa \| Lihula \| Martna \| Noarootsi \| Nõva \| Oru \| Ridala \| Risti \| Taebla \| Vormsi