Local History

1897

A. H. Tammsaare puiestee 11 is completed

The house, with its beautiful woodwork, was commissioned by the owner Karl Glabe, a local merchant. The original blueprints of the building have not survived, but the architect is believed to have been Hugo von Wolffeldt, who was the city architect of Pärnu from 1882 to 1907. It is one of the most impressive examples of Pärnu’s resort architecture from an era in which the city consciously set out to develop its seafront.

Idyllic stopover

The original name of the boarding house “Karls Ruh”, or “Karl’s peace” in German, refers to the idyllic atmosphere that guests can enjoy here. The name was prominently displayed on wooden panels on the façade of the house, the originals of which have not survived. A hundred years ago, there were quite a few buildings with beautiful wooden lacework, but the building at Tammsaare 11 is one of the only surviving treasures of its kind.

1935

The building is being purchased by the Ministry of Defence

Vacationers included Päts and Laidoner

Bellevue changed hands again at an auction, when the Ministry of Defence bought it as a holiday home for army officers. This turned Bellevue into a lavish summer resort during the first Estonian republic, known for hosting guests such as President Konstantin Päts and General Johan Laidoner.

1991

Bellevue goes back to the city of Pärnu

After the Republic of Estonia regained its independence, Bellevue became the property of the city of Pärnu and was converted into a retirement home.

Balti kett

1994–1996

Pärnu becomes a summer capital again

Even though Pärnu has long been known as a great summer destination, several groundbreaking events took place in 1994, which led to the official title of Estonian Summer Capital in 1996.

Tourism takes off

The legendary beach hotel Rannahotell reopened and a tourist information centre was set up. The Pärnu Yacht Club harbour was reportedly the first in Eastern Europe to be awarded the Blue Flag and the Finn Class World Champion was held in Pärnu Bay. In addition, cruise tourists from Finland arrived in the Port of Pärnu for the first time since World War II.

2006

Boarding house declared a cultural monument

Its status as a cultural monument ensures careful stewardship of the venerable building. During the Soviet era, the interior was completely rebuilt, but the exterior of the building has been preserved in its original form despite the loss of the decorative woodwork.

Tammsaare pst 11

2026

Completion of Bellevue residences

Scandium Kinnisvara is restoring the venerable boarding house to its full glory. The works will restore the beautiful wooden lacework on the façade, renovate the outbuildings and add new volumes with luxury apartments. The author of Pärnu Bellevue’s summer architecture is Apex Arhitektuuribüroo.

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