Viljandi is a very old town and municipality in southern Estonia that was granted the town charter by Wilhelm von Endorpe in 1283. This charming little town is snuggled in the shady depths of dense southern Estonian forests, and its fascinating castle ruins, once a home of the ruling Livonian Order, are great fun to explore. There is also the beautiful nearby lake with a beach and boats to rent and unique wooden architecture. Viljandi has a large, lively student population from Viljandi Culture Academy, who keep alive Estonian folk music and heritage. During the summer, musicians can often be seen strolling the city streets singing. Summer is also the season for many festivals, concerts of folk music and medieval fairs, when tourists descend to Viljandi in large numbers. Just outside the city are Soomaa national park and the Olustvere manor built in 16th century.

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