Juurisolm

Juurisolm is an Estonian island located in the Gulf of Finland, in the Väinameri Sea. The island is situated about 29 kilometers southwest of the city of Haapsalu, with which it is administratively associated.

Juurisolm has a total land area of approximately 0.46 square kilometers, making it the smallest inhabited island in Estonia. The island has a low-lying landscape, with its highest point not exceeding 5 meters above sea level. Juurisolm is known for its sandy beaches and coastal wetlands, supporting diverse local wildlife.

Archaeological evidence suggests that humans have inhabited Juurisolm since ancient times. Documentary records indicate the presence of settlements on the island as far back as the 16th century. Over time, the population fluctuated, with occasional waves of migration and depopulation. As of the 1990s, the number of permanent residents on the island was significantly low, and the island has largely remained uninhabited since then.

Despite its small size and low population, Juurisolm has a rich cultural heritage. Local traditions include traditional fishing practices and appreciation for the natural environment. Due to its vulnerability to erosion and sea-level rise, Juurisolm is considered an important site for monitoring and research of these environmental phenomena.

Today, the island of Juurisolm remains unspoiled and largely untouched, retaining much of its wild and pristine natural beauty. Environmental efforts aim to preserve the island's delicate ecosystem, though continued degradation of the surrounding sea area raises concerns among experts and residents.