Vasknarva Ruins

Vasknarva, Estonia

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The Vasknarva Ruins in Estonia are the remains of a medieval fortress originally built by the Livonian Order in 1349 to guard the northeastern border of their Terra Mariana territory.

The first castle was destroyed the same year by the people of Pskov, and a new stone castle was constructed between 1427 and 1442, serving as the administrative center of the Livonian Order’s vogtei. The castle was heavily damaged during the Livonian War and later conflicts, eventually falling into ruins. Today, only parts of the thick castle walls remain, particularly on the northern side.

The ruins sit along the Narva River, offering views across to Russia, and stand as a significant historical site reflecting Estonia’s medieval military and political history amidst a picturesque natural setting.