The Gustav Adolf Grammar School or Gustav Adolf Gymnasium, in Tallinn, Estonia, was established in 1631 by the Swedish king Gustav II Adolf and is the oldest active secondary school in the country. Throughout centuries the school has survived as an educational institution regardless of the upheavals in the political and social life of Estonia. The regime changes have affected the curricula and teaching language, but neither wars nor revolutions have forced the school to close the doors even temporarily.
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History
1631-1651
When the school was founded, it was known as Revalsche Gymnasium or Gymnasium Revaliense (Gymnasium of Reval). Until 1645 it consisted of four forms: quarta, tertia, secunda and prima, prima being the highest. The teaching staff consisted of four professors and two colleagues (teachers of quarta and tertia). Pupils were taught rethoric, poetry, Greek and Ancient Hebrew languages, mathematics, theology, history etc. Latin was used to teach.
Architecture
The school buildings were originally constructed in the 13th century as a nunnery. Later the buildings has been rebuilt and expanded on. The latest renovation, completed in 1999, was intended to recover its historical appearance and value. The school is built virtually behind the 13th century Tallinn Old Town city wall, which gives the whole complex a unique historic atmosphere and beauty.
Education
Today, the Gustav Adolf Gymnasium provides both primary and secondary education. In the secondary stage (gymnasium) students can choose between natural sciences, English, Swedish and French direction.
