Behind the unassuming façade of Pagari 1 in Tallinn’s Old Town lies one of the most feared locations in Soviet-occupied Estonia. Originally built as an apartment house, this building later became the headquarters of the KGB in Estonia and a pre-trial prison. For decades, it symbolised Soviet terror and oppression. The exhibition 'Locked Up Stories': The KGB in Estonia invites visitors into the basement cells where political prisoners were once held - sometimes up to 18 people in a single, airless room. Here, detainees faced harsh interrogations, mental and physical torture, and the constant fear of execution or deportation to Siberian labour camps. A visit to the KGB Prison Cells offers a sobering yet essential insight into Estonia’s recent history - and a tribute to those who never gave up hope.
History & Anthropology Historic house
| Monday | 11:00 – 18:00 |
| Tuesday | 11:00 – 18:00 |
| Wednesday | 11:00 – 18:00 |
| Thursday | 11:00 – 18:00 |
| Friday | 11:00 – 18:00 |
| Saturday | 11:00 – 18:00 |
| Sunday | 11:00 – 18:00 |
October - April: from Wednesday to Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
May - September: open daily, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
December 2025 (1.12.2025–6.01.2026) open daily, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (except Dec 24, Dec 25, Dec 26 and Jan 1).
| 0 – 8 | Free |
| Tallinn Card | Valid |
| Adults | €10.00 |
| Seniors | €8.00 |
| Students | €8.00 |
Free entry:
- Children up to and including 8 years of age
- Children with disabilities up to 16 years of age with accompanying persons
- Persons 16 years of age and older with severe disabilities with accompanying persons
- The repressed
- Employees of Estonian museums
- Museum Card
- ICOM members
- Holders of the Tallinn Card at Vabamu and KGB Prison Cells
- Journalists with the press card of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ)
Pagari 1, Tallinn
No exhibitions in KGB Prison Cells have been found.
KGB Prison Cells has 1 rating.
The KGB Prison Cells in Tallinn, Estonia, offer a sobering look into the country's Soviet-era past. Located in the basement of the former KGB headquarters, this small museum provides visitors with a raw and authentic experience of the conditions endured by political prisoners. The cells and interrogation rooms have been preserved in their original state, giving a stark and sometimes chilling insight into the methods used by the KGB.
Visitors often comment on the powerful impact of seeing the actual cells and learning about the experiences of those who were detained here. The audio guide, available in multiple languages, is frequently praised for providing detailed historical context and personal stories that bring the exhibits to life. Many find the experience educational and thought-provoking, appreciating how it sheds light on an important part of Estonian history.
However, some visitors note that the museum is quite small and can be fully explored in about an hour. A few also mention that the content can be emotionally heavy and may not be suitable for all audiences, especially young children. The lack of extensive exhibits or interactive displays might disappoint those expecting a more comprehensive museum experience.
Despite its compact size, the KGB Prison Cells are generally considered a valuable stop for those interested in 20th-century history or seeking to understand Estonia's path to independence. The museum's central location in Tallinn makes it easily accessible for tourists exploring the city.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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