The Secrets of Land Ownership in Estonia: From Feudal Deals to Revolutionary Changes! What Does the History of Property Conceal?

Life in Reval (Tallinn) in the 13th Century

The middle-class residents of Reval centuries ago lived much more modestly than we do now. Their homes, usually one or two stories high, were built of stone. Despite their small size, these dwellings were filled with coziness. During the day, everyday life unfolded in one room, which transformed into a sleeping area at night.

The Feudal Era and Land Ownership

In the 13th century, the concept of land ownership was different from what it is today. Land plots were temporarily granted by the feudal lord to vassals. In return, the vassals were obligated to serve their suzerain, without having full ownership rights to the land.

Livonia's Governance

In the past, Livonia was subject to foreign rulers, with the Livonian Order, a branch of the Teutonic Order, dominating. Vassals and the church received lands from the order and were obliged to serve it. Peasants cultivated these lands and, in exchange for their labor, received protection from their feudal lords.

The Life of a Livonian Peasant in the 13th Century

In medieval Livonia, an ordinary person did not buy land with money. They were granted a plot in exchange for labor and loyalty. In return, they received food and protection from their lord. The economy of that time was based on barter—land could be exchanged for livestock or services. Ordinary people traded not with money but with the results of their labor and obligations to the feudal lord.

The History of the Housing Market in Estonia

Dealing with real estate in 13th-century Livonia bears no resemblance to modern processes. It is a fragment of history that reveals the evolution of the housing market.

Housing Prices in Reval in the 18th Century

Interested in learning about the cost of living in the past? Let's imagine what the rent for an apartment in Tallinn, then known as Reval, was in the 18th century. Join us on an enlightening exploration of historical facts!

Housing in the Past

Life and Payment for Labor: In ancient times, the concept of living was different. People often lived in communal apartments, and work served as currency for shelter.

Cost: By converting the old prices, we find that moderate housing was rented for about 10 euros per month in today's exchange rate.

Labor for Shelter: Ordinary townspeople had to exert a lot of effort to secure a rental. Serfs performed duties in exchange for housing, while free individuals exchanged services, such as bread for an apartment.

Changes in Housing Rental

It is astonishing to witness the transformation. Renting a residence in today's Tallinn is completely different from what it was in the 18th century.