Monument to Friedrich Robert Faehlmann
The monument to Friedrich Robert Faehlmann in Tartu is located in front of the Anatomical Theatre building. The monument consists of a bronze bust of the scientist mounted on a granite pedestal. The monument’s creator is the sculptor Voldemar Mellik, and it was unveiled in 1930.
Who was Friedrich Robert Faehlmann?
Friedrich Robert Faehlmann was the first Estonian doctor to defend a doctoral thesis. Throughout his life, he devotedly worked in Tartu and its surroundings, offering aid to those in need. For five semesters, Faehlmann lectured students on pharmacology and prescriptions at the Anatomical Theatre.
Faehlmann’s contributions were not limited to medicine alone. He also left a significant mark on Estonian literature, particularly as the author behind the idea of creating the national epic “Kalevipoeg.” He made the first drafts of this epic work, which he initially presented in 1839 at the Estonian Learned Society, which he also founded.
From 1842, Faehlmann served as a lecturer of the Estonian language course at the University of Tartu. He was an active researcher of the Estonian language and participated in the creation of national mythology. Furthermore, Faehlmann is considered a founding figure of Estonian national literature.
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Other Points of Interest
- In Toome Hill Park, there is a monument to Kristjan Jaak Peterson, who is also considered a progenitor of Estonian mythology.
- Continuing the discussion on writers, in the Ülejõe Park, there’s a monument to Friedebert Tuglas, one of Tartu’s most recognizable monuments.
- In the old town, close to the University of Tartu, is the von Bock House. Opposite it stands a monument to Nikolay Pirogov, the renowned surgeon.