Kontiolax

Kontiolax is a former municipality of Finland, located in the region of North Karelia. It is situated on the western shore of Lake Ladoga, just a few kilometers from the Finnish-Russian border.

The municipality had a population of approximately 2,000 people, with the majority of the residents living in the village of Kontiolahti. Kontiolax was absorbed into the nearby Lieksa municipality in 2005 under the Finnish municipal reform. The reform aimed to reduce the number of municipalities in the country and create more efficient and cost-effective local governments.

Despite its annexation, Kontiolax remains an important part of Finnish history and culture. The area is rich in natural resources, including forests and lakes, which have contributed significantly to the local economy. Hunting and fishing have traditionally been mainstays of the local economy, and the area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and bears.

Kontiolax has also gained international recognition for hosting the 1999 IBU Biathlon World Championships, which brought together top biathletes from around the world. The event showcased the region's natural beauty and drew global attention to its unique cultural and sporting heritage.