Jõgevamaa

Jõgevamaa, or Jõgeva County, is a county in eastern Estonia. It covers about 2,900 square kilometers and has a population of around 28,000–30,000 people. The administrative center and largest town is Jõgeva. Other notable towns include Põltsamaa and Mustvee. The county comprises several rural municipalities and urban settlements and operates within the national system of counties to coordinate regional planning, education, and healthcare.

The landscape is largely flat to gently rolling farmland, with forests and numerous lakes. The Pedja River runs through the county, and the shores of Lake Peipsi lie near Mustvee on the eastern edge. The region has a strong agricultural heritage, with dairy and grain production forming an important part of the local economy, alongside small-scale manufacturing and services. The area also hosts traditional rural communities and a range of outdoor recreational opportunities.

Historically, Jõgevamaa has been influenced by various medieval and early modern polities that shaped eastern Estonia. A 2017 municipal reform reorganized local governance within the county, aligning it with national reforms. The county is part of Estonia’s framework of regional administration, working with national authorities to implement development programs and public services.

Economy and culture: agriculture, forestry, light industry, and services are the main sectors. Major cultural landmarks include Põltsamaa Castle, a historic fortress dating back to the medieval period, and local museums in Jõgeva and Põltsamaa. The county hosts traditional festivals and offers outdoor recreation along the Lake Peipsi shore and the Pedja River valley.