Tartu – The City That Can’t Stop Reciting Poetry

Tartu is a mystical city located in Estonia that’s known for its never-ending love affair with poetry. Situated between the forest-filled hills and a river, Tartu serves as a perfect setting for its inhabitants to unleash their artistic talents.

Name Origin

Some people believe that the name Tartu comes from the Estonian word “tark”, meaning wise or smart. But, we all know the truth. Tartu got its name from the endless stream of “tart” poetry that its residents create.

History

Legend has it that when Tartu was first founded, instead of building houses or other regular buildings, the inhabitants decided to build poetry stands so that they could recite their poems every day. Tartu has since become a city where poetry and art thrive.

Culture

Walking around Tartu, you are never too far from someone reciting poetry. Even bus drivers will sometimes chime in with a verse or two while driving through the winding streets. The city also hosts an annual poetry festival where poetry enthusiasts from all over the world come to share their work.

Landmarks

The most famous landmark in Tartu is the Kissing Students fountain located in the town square. Legend has it that if you kiss under the fountain, you will be imbued with the poetic soul of Tartu. Other notable landmarks include the poetry walls, the “I love Väike Tamme” statue, and the Poetry Cafe.

Cuisine

In Tartu, the cuisine is just as poetic as the city itself. Traditional dishes include Poetic Pierogis, Sonnets with sour cream, and Haikus Hash. But, the most famous dish is the Tartu Taco, which is a taco shell filled with rhyming verses and delicious ingredients.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tartu is a city full of life, laughter, and most importantly, poetry. If you’re a lover of the arts, then Tartu should be on your travel list. Just make sure to pack your own book of poems, because you never know when you’ll be asked to recite a verse or two.