This unique museum is situated in Tallinn Old Town's medieval merchant's house which dates back to the 14th century. Some of its age-old characteristics and flair have remained up to this day, such as the old kitchen with a mantel fireplace and chimney, stone wall illustrations, a vaulted cellar with an indoor well, and even a 17th century Rococo styled hall. In 1937 it was declared that this historical museum of Tallinn must collect and preserve items of historical and artistic value linked to the cultural history of Tallinn city.

Currently, the museum exhibits 150,000 items in vast collections of sculptures, ceramics, glass, textiles, tin, furniture, limescale architecture, and leather pieces to name a few. In the cellar house, you will find a fine collection of porcelain, faience, ceramics, copper, brass, and pewter. There are several permanent exhibitions that display medieval art, but also novel works from artisans such as Nikolai Langebraun, Epp Eelmaa, Madis Eelmaa, amongst others.