Izhor

Izhor, or Izhorians, are a Finnic ethnic group native to Ingria, a historical region along the Gulf of Finland in what is now western Russia. They belong to the Baltic Finnic branch of the Uralic language family and are closely related to other Finnic peoples such as Finns, Karelians, and Ingrians.

The Izhor language, also called Izhori, is a Finnic language with only a small number of fluent speakers today and is considered endangered. Documentation and revival efforts are pursued by cultural organizations and linguists as part of broader Ingria heritage projects.

Historically the Izhor inhabited coastal and island communities in Ingria, relying on fishing, farming, and trade. Over centuries they experienced changing rule under Sweden and Russia, and in the 20th century faced assimilation pressures and displacement, with many people leaving for Finland or other parts of the Soviet Union.

Cultural traditions include distinctive music, costume, and crafts reflecting Finnic, Russian, and Nordic influences. Religious affiliations have shifted over time, with Lutheran influences from Swedish rule and later Orthodox Christianity in some communities.

Today the Izhor are a small minority in Russia, recognized as part of the region’s diverse Finnic heritage. Ongoing language documentation and cultural-heritage initiatives seek to preserve Izhor identity and traditions.