Kasmu Church Käsmu Village, Haljala Parish

One of the highlights of my visit to Estonia was hiring a local guide to take me beyond Tallinn and into the countryside. Traveling through the forests, coastal roads, and small villages of Lahemaa National Park provided an opportunity to experience a different side of Estonia. Along the way, we stopped in the historic fishing village of Kasmu, home of one of the country’s charming churches.

Often referred to as Estonia’s “Captains” Village, Kasmu has a long maritime history. For generations, the sea provided both livelihood and opportunity for the people who lived here. Many residents became sailors, shipbuilders and sea captains. Even today, the connection to the sea remains an important part of Kasmu’s identity

Standing near the center of the village is Kasmu Church, a simple wooden church built in 1863-1864 through donations from residents. Its modest design reflects the character of the community that built it: practical, resilient and deeply rooted in faith. Unlike many of Europe’s grand cathedrals that impress through size and ornamentation, Kasmu Church draws visitors in through its simplicity.