Lohtajan

Lohtajan is a village located in the municipality of Kokkola, Finland, in the Ostrobothnia region. It was formerly a municipality in its own right until it was merged with Kokkola in 2009. The village is situated on the coast of the Gulf of Bothnia, and its economy has historically been based on fishing and agriculture.

The area of Lohtajan has been inhabited for centuries, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Stone Age. During the medieval period, it was part of the larger administrative area of Ostrobothnia. In the 17th century, Lohtajan became a distinct parish, and a wooden church was built in the village. The current church, Lohtajan kirkko, was constructed in the 18th century and is a notable example of Finnish church architecture from that period.

The merger with Kokkola aimed to create a stronger and more viable economic unit, combining resources and services. Lohtajan retains its distinct village character, with a local population and community life. The village is surrounded by natural landscapes, including coastal areas and forests, which are popular for outdoor recreation. Lohtajan's proximity to the sea has also influenced its culture and traditions.