Lilbi: Village History and Archaeological Finds

Lilbi combines a distinctive village layout with a history of archaeological finds directly connected to the place. Among the settlements recorded on the map, the layout of farmsteads, stone walls and paths in the centre of Lilbi is the best preserved. To the west, a man-made pine forest borders the village. For a trip to Saaremaa, Lilbi offers a tangible glimpse into the settlement landscape and local history, along with leisure and dining options that show another side of a stay here.

Archaeological Finds Linked to the Village

Between 2016 and 2024, a farmer from Lilbi handed hundreds of prehistoric objects he had found on his land to the Saaremaa Museum. These years refer to when the objects were handed over. The finds include Viking Age silver coins and the first zoomorphic weight discovered on Saaremaa. The coins link the history of the finds to the Viking Age; the weight stands out for its animal shape and as the first find of its kind on Saaremaa. So Lilbi is not just about a general picture of prehistory, but also about specific, identifiable objects with a direct connection to the village. Travellers interested in cultural history can include this history of archaeological finds as a reason in its own right when planning a trip to Saaremaa.

Historical Names and the Settlement Landscape

Local history can also be explored through place names and the history of the manor. The name Lilpe Jurg is recorded for 1630–1631. In the 18th century, Lilbi (Lilby) was an independent manor, separated from Uuelõve and Vanalõve between 1744 and 1750. The name forms show how Lilbi was referred to at different times; the manor’s history tells of the separation of the independent manor. The settlement landscape in the southern part of the former Kaarma-Suurvald, to which Lilbi belongs, is a typical example of a clustered settlement pattern. The place name, manor and settlement pattern offer different perspectives on Lilbi’s past.

Things to Do and Places to Eat in Lilbi

At Holiday Village Suur Töll in Lilbi, there is an adventure mini golf course with nine holes featuring various Saaremaa sights. There is also a low adventure course. The activities are distinct: the mini golf course features island motifs, while the course offers a different type of activity. Check availability before your visit.

The Suure Töllu Körts tavern in Lilbi serves homemade food and traditional Estonian dishes made with fresh produce from the island. This adds a culinary option to your stay, alongside local history and leisure activities. The menu and opening arrangements may change; check the latest information before planning your visit.

Lilbi as a Base for Your Stay

When choosing a holiday apartment on Saaremaa, you can decide whether to make local history and the landscape your focus, or also take the leisure and dining options mentioned into account.

Discover more destinations: Kõõru, Nurme, Haeska, Valjala, Nässuma, Siiksaare, Salme, Haapsu

For the broader travel overview: Saaremaa.