Käitrite

Käitrite is a term used in Estonian to describe a type of traditional farmstead or dwelling, particularly those found in rural areas. It refers to a collection of buildings that together form a functional unit for agricultural life, typically including a main house, barns, stables, and other outbuildings necessary for farming and habitation. The layout and specific structures of a käitrite would vary depending on the region, the size of the farm, and the historical period. These farmsteads were often self-sufficient, providing shelter, food, and resources for the inhabitants. The architecture of käitrite often reflects local building materials and traditional Estonian construction techniques, such as the use of timber and stone. Over time, with changes in agricultural practices and modernization, many traditional käitrite have either been repurposed, fallen into disrepair, or been modernized, altering their original character. Nevertheless, they remain an important part of Estonia's cultural heritage, offering insights into historical rural life and the development of agrarian society in the region. The concept emphasizes not just a single building, but a cohesive living and working environment.