Jaani (St
John’s) Church can be found between the medieval stronghold and the Town Wall. Its
history begins with the building of a Franciscan monastery in 1466-1472. The monastery
burned down during the Livonian War and later it was reconstructed as a town church
dedicated to John the Apostle. The church has survived to this day, having undergone
thorough rebuilding. The last restoration was preceded by archaeological excavations
1980-1981, directed by archaeologist Urmas Selirand and art historian Kaur Alttoa. In
1989-1990 archaeologist Heiki Valk directed extensive archaeological excavations, which
were carried out on the communications track planned on the south and east side of Jaani
Church. The findings included numerous items of pottery and construction ceramics, metal
items, jewellery and other objects connected with human activities, for example chessmen
made of bone. Jaani church was surrounded by a graveyard, therefore not surprisingly 127
skeletons were found.
Jaani Church was closed in the 50s and the building was used for storing furniture. In
1986 the decision was made to restore the building as a concert hall. Three years later
the original plan was changed and the church was restored. At Christmas 1991 the first
service in over forty years was performed. There are stained glass windows by Renee Aua in
the church. The organ was given as a present by Ahrensburg, the sister city of
Viljandi.
