Rakvere (Estonia)
Rakvere is the centre of Lääne-Viru County; its inhabitants’ number is 17,500. One-third of the territory of the town is covered with parks, public gardens and natural groves. One of the oldest towns of Estonia, Rakvere was built on the site of an ancient settlement. It had to survive hard times during its long history. On two occasions, in 1569 and in 1703, it was completely destroyed in wars. The town can identify three important stages that served as turning points in its history. The first is when a major east-west commercial route came to pass by the town in the 14-16th centuries. The second boom arrived after 1870, with the construction of the Baltic Railway. The third is the birth of the Estonian Republic, which reignited the entrepreneurial spirit of Rakvere’s citizens. Today the town accommodates 884 companies and 176 self-employed businessmen.
