Tallinn is the capital of Estonia in Northern Europe (photo by Kenn Stearns)

Less than 20 years ago, on August 20, 1991, Estonia declared independence from the Soviet Union and Tallinn once gain became the capital of this Northern European country that is bordered to the north by the Gulf of Finland, to the south by Latvia, to the west by the Baltic Sea, and to the east by the Russian Federation. Over the centuries, the Estonians were subjected to Danish, Teutonic, Swedish, and Russian rule.

Much of  Tallinn’s historic city center was built in the 14th century when it prospered as a trading town. The cobblestone streets, intriguing alleyways, and medieval buildings have survived to create a unique charm.

But the charm that delights tourists hides a dark history. Estonians endured brutal invasions and occupations.  The Singing Revolution is a documentary that tells the story of how Estonians used song as a weapon to help free themselves from decades of Soviet occupation. “If Hollywood made this story up, no one would believe it.” It’s a film worth seeing.