During the late-19th and early-20th century industrial boom, the coast became covered with ports and factories. It was founded by Mr. Nobel and Mr. Lessner in 1913 as a submarine building enterprise, and has been a closed-off territory ever since. Back in the Soviet days, the coastline was considered a border zone and was very closely guarded. On the record book, it was guarded to keep the enemies out, but it's known that the guards were actually keeping the subjects of the state in.
Times change, though: The Telliskivi and Rotermann model of making old factories great again proved to be working, and the coastline from Linnhall to Patarei Fort was also opened to the public, proving to be a success, as well. The writing was on the wall: Nobelessner should be next.
In cooperation with world-renowned conductor, Tõnu Kaljuste, and his Nargen festival, the former smithery was turned into an opera hall. To add more value, the spectacle of Arvo Pärt Arvo Pärt is an Estonian composer of contemporary classical music. ’s “Adam’s Passion” was brought in. To position itself on the market, Nobelessner had to be just like its neighbors, but slightly better. This is why Nobelessner looked to adapt some Mediterranean urban vibes to its Baltic shores.
Anyway -- Here you are, looking for a good time: As you enter Nobelessner, either from Tööstuse or Kalaranna Street, you will notice a lot of work in progress. Upgrading an industrial wasteland of this magnitude takes a lot of time, and a lot of money. This is why you'll find empty lots, still abandoned, or unfinished buildings, cranes, fences, temporary traffic signs, and construction workers all around.
It’s easy to imagine what this place will be like with 10 years of work. Nobelessner will become a "home sweet home" for those who can afford it. As an old Estonian saying goes, "I want to live in peace and quiet, away from people, in the middle of the forest, on the seashore, right in downtown."
So, what can a visitor do here? You might enjoy a breathtaking view of the bay from the pier, all while counting the yachts in the port and sea. If you are into technology and innovation, the Porto invention factory, with its ever-changing program, may be the place to bring you back again and again. If you are one of those artsy types, then modern-art exhibitions at the Kai Art Center are another lure. If you feel like having a beer or two with your "bros," then the Põhjala taproom will baffle and blow you away with its diverse assortment of beer.
As soon as September sets in, Nobelessner’s outdoor loses its appeal. It becomes windy, rainy and cold, much like it does in Norway. You’d better carry a brick in your pocket, otherwise you may be blown away by the wind, or washed away to the sea! As soon as you make it indoors, however, the good old sunny Nobelessner, with its happy inhabitants, is still there.