During the Soviet Union, Uranium was enriched from the oil shale rocks in Sillamae. Therefore, the city was closed and access was restricted to those who were authorized to work and live in the city till 1991. The city’s architecture based on Stalinist neo-classicist style is a vivid reminisce of the Soviet Union

Port of Sillamae is one the key ports in Estonia. It is the Eastern most port in the Baltic Sea and is situated closer to Russia. During the summer, the locals enjoy the promenade and warm water alone the beach. Similar to Narva, Sillamae is mostly populated with Russian speakers.