I have selected the photograph in this entry because it so captures the contrast between the old and new Estonia. In the background is the construction of a 32 story bank tower and in the foreground is the Russian Orthodox church Our Lady of Kazan, built in 1721 and the oldest wooden structure in Tallinn. Estonia is doing a good job of modernizing, while being aware of its world heritage architecture and cultural ambiance dating back to the 13OOs. This change is also reflected in the people, a dynamic people, totally engaged in the modern world, in some cases advancing beyond their EU peers, but cognizant of their special heritage. It is one of my favorite places, having spent an entire summer their. (see www.marshallpublications.com for more)
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