A Summer Visit to Pirita Convent: Connecting History, Culture, and Community

On the last day of July, an event was organised in cooperation between the Order of Malta Estonia and Pirita Südamekodu. We brought together a group of elderly residents for a visit to Pirita Convent. We explored the convent's chapel and facilities and enjoyed a walk in the flower garden.

In total, more than twenty elderly people participated. For some, it was their very first time visiting the new convent, which had cornerstone placed already in the year 2000.

We were warmly welcomed by Sister Maria-Angela, who arrived in Estonia from India in 2005 and has since been living and serving in the convent on a daily basis. She shared stories about her personal journey and life in the convent, as well as notable guests who have been hosted there.

For example, during his 2018 visit to Estonia, Pope Francis stayed at the place. He planted a tree in the convent garden, which visitors can admire today, and even took a nap inside the convent.

Pirita Convent is more than just beautiful architecture and warm hospitality. It holds a significant place in Estonia’s cultural memory – associated with film classics like "The Last Relic" ("Viimne Reliikvia") and the literary works of Indrek Hargla.

Many will also remember attending summer concerts among the ruins of the old convent. We hope to return soon with elderly residents from other care homes to visit the convent and its welcoming inhabitants in the near future.