The oldest parts of Toompea stronghold (lower parts of outer walls) date back to the early 13th century when the Order of the Sword Brothers built a stone stronghold at the southwest corner of the limestone heights. The ascetic stronghold that had an impact on the entire North Estonian architecture took shape between 1346 and 1561. The limestone plateau reaches more than 20 m higher than the surrounding area.

In Estonian folk poetry Toompea is also known as the grave of our ancient hero Kalev, assembled by his widow Linda.