The members of the Dominican Order settled in Tallinn in the 13th century. We know that the order was founded in 1216 Spaniard St. Dominic de Guzman. It is believed that the founder of the mother before the birth of her son had a dream that she had given birth to a black and white dog, which will illuminate the torch around the world. It is for this reason Dominic in the visual arts is presented to us with a torch, accompanied by a dog. Hence also the name of the Order - «domini canes», which means "God's dog." The mission of the Order is to preach the gospel all over Europe. In 1246 the Dominicans were granted the right to found a convent in Tallinn.

Place chosen for the construction of very carefully and in line with the spiritual and material interests of the monks. In order to expand its influence, soon after the construction, the monastery was founded a school where Estonian boys were educated in Latin. The most significant building in the typical monastery complex is the Church of St. Catherine, built around the 14th century. In those days, the 68-meter high building of the church was the biggest and most noticeable around Tallinn.

During its existence, the monastery building was rebuilt and expanded several times until the 16th century. However, the monastery was severely damaged during the Lutheran Reformation in 1525, when he had been robbed. And in 1531, the building was a huge fire that destroyed the church so much that it has become unusable. In 1844 on the site of the monastery refectory was built Church of St. Peter and Paul.

Up to the present time, unfortunately, all the monastery buildings are not preserved. Today, you can save the monastery garden and the surrounding crusades moves, chapel, dormitory, cloister barn Kapitulna hall and others. Also partially preserved church of St. Catherine

Nowadays in the buildings of the monastery is a museum as well as the works of medieval Tallinn stone-cutters. It is possible to book a tour of the monastery. On summer days the patio, ivy-covered, often hosts concerts, various programs, theatrical productions. In the basement there is a "pillar of energy." It is believed that leaning against it, you can draw physical and spiritual strength.

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