Idyllic stopover
The original name of the boarding house “Karls Ruh”, or “Karl’s peace” in German, refers to the idyllic atmosphere that guests can enjoy here. The name was prominently displayed on wooden panels on the façade of the house, the originals of which have not survived. A hundred years ago, there were quite a few buildings with beautiful wooden lacework, but the building at Tammsaare 11 is one of the only surviving treasures of its kind.
1922–1945
Karls Ruh changes hands and is renamed Bellevue
Summer favourite among the upper class
In 1922, Karl Glabe’s son Bruno Glabe sold the beautiful boarding house to Jaan Tiivel. It was probably under Tiivel that Karls Ruh was named Bellevue.
In 1935, Bellevue changed hands again at an auction, when the Ministry of Defence bought it as a holiday home for army officers. This turned Bellevue into a lavish summer resort during the first Estonian republic, known for hosting guests such as President Konstantin Päts and General Johan Laidoner.
1935
Bellevue becomes a Soviet holiday site
Secret retreat for army officers
During the Soviet era, Bellevue was at the disposal of army officers and functionaries – submariners and officials of the All-Union Central Council of Trade Unions all came here for the summer. The property was probably considered to be a site of military importance, which is why documents relating to the construction of the building may have been destroyed during this period.
1991
Bellevue goes back to the city of Pärnu
After the Republic of Estonia regained its independence, Bellevue became the property of the city of Pärnu and was converted into a retirement home.
1994–1996
Pärnu becomes a summer capital again
Even though Pärnu has long been known as a great summer destination, several groundbreaking events took place in 1994, which led to the official title of Estonian Summer Capital in 1996.
Tourism takes off
The legendary beach hotel Rannahotell reopened and a tourist information centre was set up. The Pärnu Yacht Club harbour was reportedly the first in Eastern Europe to be awarded the Blue Flag and the Finn Class World Champion was held in Pärnu Bay. In addition, cruise tourists from Finland arrived in the Port of Pärnu for the first time since World War II.
2006
Boarding house declared a cultural monument
Its status as a cultural monument ensures careful stewardship of the venerable building. During the Soviet era, the interior was completely rebuilt, but the exterior of the building has been preserved in its original form despite the loss of the decorative woodwork.
2026
Completion of Bellevue residences
Scandium Kinnisvara is restoring the venerable boarding house to its full glory. The works will restore the beautiful wooden lacework on the façade, renovate the outbuildings and add new volumes with luxury apartments. The author of Pärnu Bellevue’s summer architecture is Apex Arhitektuuribüroo.
See the buildings
