Just past the fascinating Seaplane Harbour, and Patarei Sea Fortress and former prison, Noblessner is quickly continuing the development of the seaside in Kalamaja.
The historic submarine shipyard is now home to new apartment blocks, boat anchorage facilities, offices, and a growing number of galleries, restaurants, bars and boutiques.
A fascinating history
Noblessner dates back to the early 20th century, when Tsarist Russia and Peter the Great began building up their navy in anticipation of war. Though the original plans of a war harbour were never completed, a huge submarine shipyard, named after Emanuel Nobel, nephew of Alfred Nobel, and his business partner Arthur Lessner (hence Noblessner), was built.The shipyard was famous for its submarines, built for the Russian Empire, but when Estonia gained independence in 1918, Noblessner was declared bankrupt and split between several smaller companies, which began manufacturing smaller ships due to lack of larger orders. During the Soviet period, Noblessner was renamed Factory Number 7 and was used to repair submarines and other ships damaged in World War II.
After Estonia regained its independence in 1991, the shipyard remained active for a decade, with the last vessels built as recently as 2018. Since 2009, the Noblessner Marina and Noblessner Yacht Club and Sailing School (NYCS) have also operated in the area.
Today, Noblessner is flourishing, but it’s far from completion, with building and renovation work expected to continue until the end of the 2020s.
Shopping in Noblessner
The impressive Shishi store is packed full of inspiring decor for the home. On a smaller, but no less stylish scale, Kalhoj sells Scandinavian-style kitchen and dining room accessories. Treat yourself to jewellery at Baltic Brilliant or pamper yourself at Biomarketi Ilu- ja Tervisetuba, which offers ecological manis, pedis, and facials.Art and culture in Noblessner
Kai Art Center located in the waterfront old factory building offers a captivating blend of contemporary art, immersive cultural activities, and acclaimed architectural design. The same building houses Temnikova & Kasela Gallery.
PROTO Invention Factory is a virtual reality and invention theme park where virtual reality brings history alive.
Eating and Drinking in Noblessner
You’ll find something for every taste and budget at Noblessner, including one of Estonia’s top restaurants (according to the White Guide Nordic). 180° is run by Michelin-starred chef Matthias Diether, so you can expect no less than an unforgettable gastronomic experience.Kai Art Centre plays host to a plethora of eateries, bars and cafés. Here you can find the casual, locals' favourite LORE bistro, the burger joint Kot., ran by the Michelin awarded Chef Kim Mikkola, and Uma offering modern Asian cuisine.
Craft beer enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to Põhjala Tap Room with an ever-changing selection of craft beers, ciders, crafty cocktails, and American style menu. Alternatively, you can head to Brewklyn Craft Beer Cafe featuring a wide array of, mostly, American craft beers & ciders and some simple food options as well.
And for those looking to stay out a bit later, head to Klubi Hall, a nightclub for underground electronic music.
