Noblessner Submarine Factory and “Stalker” Pop-up Museum Bunker

In the early 20th century, the Russian Empire invested resources in the development of its military power, particularly in the expansion of its naval forces. As a result, three major privately-funded factories were established in Tallinn, one of which was the Noblessner submarine factory founded in 1913. This significant submarine factory of the time was established by two businessmen from St. Petersburg – Emanuel Nobel (the nephew of Alfred Nobel) and Arthur Lessner. The factory was named Noblessner after these two men. While the primary activities of the factory included submarine production, construction, and maintenance, submarine production ceased with the independence of Estonia, and the construction and repair of surface ships continued until August 2018.

Over time, the shipbuilding factory underwent various name changes. Since the bankruptcy of Tallinn Shipyard in 2001, it has been owned by the BLRT Group, which, in partnership with others, is developing the Noblessner harbor city. In the fall of 2021, the “Stalker” pop-up museum was established in an old bunker on the outskirts of the Noblessner harbor city, largely dedicated to Andrei Tarkovsky’s cult film “Stalker,” much of which was filmed in Estonia. The location has previously hosted film viewings and author evenings. During Open House, in addition to exploring the museum, visitors can also observe the urban space project “Stalker’s Cliff” by architecture and design students.

Meeting point: “Stalker” pop-up museum bunker behind Põhjala Brewery.