The tower-stronghold of Vao was probably built in the second half of the 14th century. The square construction is made of limestone.
Tower-strongholds were built by vassals to protect roads and waterways and to protect themselves against peasant uprisings. Construction of such tower-strongholds increased after the failed St. George's Night uprising (Estonian: Jüriöö ületõus) by peasants in 1343.
Besides the Vao tower the only other tower-stronghold that remains intact to this day is the one in Kiiu.
Copyright Otto de Voogd 2009
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