The history of UT museum now in a book

The book introducing the story of the development of Toome hill (Toomemägi) and the assets of the University of Tartu Museum carries the title “Muusade mägi. Tartu ülikooli muuseum Toomemäel” (“Mountain of muses. University of Tartu museum on Toome hill”). The book was published for both domestic and foreign tourists who wish to know more about the story of Toome hill.

The Director of the University of Tartu Museum Mariann Raisma says that this is the first book of its kind about the UT museum. “Published in the format of a guide book, it gives a short overview of the colourful history of Toome hill. Over the centuries, the most beautiful park in Tartu has held an ancient fortification, a medieval town, an army base and also the academic centre of the university. In addition to the story of Toome hill, the book also introduces the buildings in which the University of Tartu museum is located: the former cathedral, the old Anatomical Theatre, observatory and the art museum in the university’s main building. The book also presents a selection of 30 items from the museum’s collections which give an overview of the valuable assets of the museum. Readers of the abundantly illustrated book will learn about the telescope which used to be the most modern in the world, the symbols of governing the university, the innovative instruments used in research, and also about rare works of art.”

In addition to interesting facts, the book also includes exciting legends, a multitude of images from years ago till today and maps of Toome hill which allow a dedicated reader to find the historical layers, buildings and memorials of interest.

The book is sold in the UT museum shop located in the old cathedral, the Tartu observatory, the UT art museum and the Tartu tourist information centre. The book is available in two languages: in Estonian and in English.