This view from the St. Nicholas Church tower focuses on the southwestern edge of the Old Town, dominated by medieval fortifications and the lush greenery of Toompea's slopes. The massive round tower on the right is Kiek in de Kök ("Peep into the Kitchen"), a 15th-century artillery tower. Its formidable stone walls, over 4 meters thick, were designed to withstand cannon fire, making it the most powerful defensive tower in the Baltic region during its time. Today, it houses a fortification museum. Below the tower, the cobblestone street running vertically is Rüütli St., historically home to the city's executioner and later a quiet residential area. To the left of Rüütli St., the large building with the expansive red-tiled roof is the Swedish St. Michael's Church (Rootsi-Mihkli kirik). Originally a medieval hospital and poorhouse, it was converted into a church for the Swedish garrison and community. Its simple, robust architecture contrasts with the more ornate merchant houses found elsewhere in the Old Town. Estonia

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