Ice Age Centre in Tartu, Estonia

This unique place in the Baltic States invites one to get acquainted with prehistoric animals and trace how nature was formed in the world and in Estonia from prehistoric times to the present day.

Ice Age Centre is located next to Lake Saadjärv, within just a 20-minute drive from Tartu, and available by public transport too. The permanent exhibition is tailored in such a way that visitors can witness the development of Estonian nature from the Ice Age to the first settlements and further on.

The first floor is entirely dedicated to life on the ice. Here, you will learn about the Ice Age and animals living at that time and will have a chance to examine a full-scale figure of a mammoth. The second floor is dedicated to glaciers in Estonia, including this period’s reflection in Estonian folklore. On the third floor, you will dive into the issues of climatology, like what role we play in it and whether we should expect a new ice age to strike.

In addition to the permanent exhibition, the Center regularly hosts temporary ones. These days, on the third floor you can find the exhibition called “Material Change. Design and New Technologies”, which explores contemporary sustainable art. Here you can discover the works of Estonian designers and new, more environmentally friendly technologies that they use in their work.

The museum displays many curious exhibits: figures of mammoth, polar bear, and other animals and birds, caves with rock paintings, and interactive elements. The exposition will be interesting for both children and adults. If you want a more detailed dive into the history of the Ice Age, you can request a guided tour.

From May 1 to August 31, the Center organizes raft trips on Lake Saadjärv. During a 25-minute trip, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the lake scenery accompanied by guides’ stories about the area.

After an exciting excursion, you may have lunch at the Polar Bear cafe located on the ground floor. If you are traveling with a company, take advantage of ordering food from the group menu.

Stay tuned for all the news on social networks:
www.facebook.com/JaaajaKeskus
www.instagram.com/iceagecentre

Tartu, Estonia