Mere Cultural Center in Tallinn to cover Soviet symbols in main hall to attract visitors
The main hall of Tallinn's Mere Cultural Center will have its Soviet-era ceiling painting and Stalinist plaster decorations covered up, as they hindered room rentals. The reversible work is approved by heritage authorities.
The Mere Cultural Center in Tallinn will carry out changes to its main hall from July 1 to July 14 to conceal Soviet symbols. The center's operator, the Cultural Boiler (Kultuurikatel), announced that the ceiling painting and stucco decorations featuring five-pointed stars around the stage and balcony balustrades will be covered with fabric and neutral plaster elements. This step is necessary because the ideological design repelled potential renters and visitors.
Kaiza-Liiz Kalda, a representative of the Cultural Boiler, explained that permission for the work was obtained in May from the Heritage Protection Department, but work could only begin after the season ended. She stressed that the center aims to be open and welcoming to all – Estonians, national minorities including Russians, and foreign guests. Therefore, the space needs to be neutral and modern.
Heritage protection specialist Kaarel Truu described the ceiling painting as a "genuine fireworks display of Soviet imperialism," depicting Soviet soldiers and navy with five-pointed stars and anchors. He confirmed that the solution is fully reversible: the painting will be covered with fabric stretched on a frame, while the chandelier will remain. The stucco will be replaced with neutral motifs.
Truu added that the building will still be an important example of Stalinist architecture, and Soviet symbols remain visible elsewhere in the center, such as in the foyer. He also noted that similar changes are not planned for the National Opera "Estonia" hall, as its painting has greater cultural heritage significance.
The Cultural Boiler has managed the Mere Cultural Center since 2025. Previously, the building was known as the Russian Culture Center and the Officers' House. Last year, a Soviet decorative coat of arms was removed from its facade.
The work in the main hall will take place from July 1 to July 14.
