The town traces its earliest history back to around the 7th or 8th century, when Estonians maintained a wooden stronghold on the 30m hilltop next to what's now the town centre. After Germanic crucaders finally seized control here in 1224, Bishop Hermann of Tartu replaced the original structure with a stone fortress, which stood until it was destroyed in 1396. Some of its foundations can still be seen, and are a must-see attraction for history buffs. Signs on the hill detail the hillfort's history and show outlines of its original floorplan.