Estonia's centennial week celebrations continuing in Haapsalu
Centennial events continue today Tuesday in Haapsalu, where at 12 noon Prime Minister Jüri Ratas will open the newly renovated flag square at the War of Independence memorial column. One hundred years ago, a first attempt was made here to declare independence.
Today one hundred years ago, Haapsalu was the first town in Estonia where an attempt was made to declare independence and proclaim the Republic of Estonia. The Salvation Committee was on the way there, but Bolshevist troops marched in before a declaration could be read out.
Prime Minister Jüri Ratas (Center), Chairman of Haapsalu City Council Jaanus Karilaid (Center), and provost Leevi Reinaru will speak, and the historic events will be recounted by Heiki Magnus, information officer of the Defence League's West district. A centennial memorial plaque will also be unveiled.
At 2 p.m. the prime minister will present the National Cultural and Scientific Awards at the Läänemaa Upper Secondary School. Starting 4:30 p.m., he will host a reception at the Haapsalu Cultural Centre.
Estonia is celebrating its anniversary with an entire week of different events on the occasion of the republic's centennial this year. The larger centers that will see major events include Tallinn, Haapsalu, Narva, Viljandi, Pärnu, Paide, and Tartu.
There are altogether some 650 events planned. You can get an overview on the programme page of Estonia 100 (link in English).
Editor: Dario Cavegn
