Pirita Beach celebrates its 100th anniversary this year. Pirita Monastery is much older—it was built in 1407. The monastery nuns already visited the beach in ancient times. The beach was close to them because the sea has receded over time.
Pirita was a fishing village for centuries. Before World War I, summer cottages began to be built there. Vacationers wanted a good beach. In 1925, the beach was developed into a proper bathing beach.
Pirita Beach was developed following the example of other resorts. In the 19th century, Kadriorg was popular. In the 1920s, people began to visit Pirita more often.
Initially, the road from Tallinn to Pirita was bad. Buses often had to be pushed on Maarjamägi. Sometimes people also traveled by boat.
In 1929, a large resort hall was opened in Pirita. There was a restaurant where people could dance. An orchestra played. Beach beauty contests were also held, and fireworks were set off.
In the 1930s, Pirita Beach was a favorite spot for Tallinn residents. There were always many people there. The beach had a special atmosphere.
On May 31, the 100th anniversary of Pirita Beach will be celebrated. The first beach building was opened in 1926. The second building was large and magnificent. It was in use until 1979.