Läänemaas

Läänemaas is a former county in Estonia, located in the western part of the country. It was one of the original counties established by the Danish king Valdemar II in 1220. The administrative center of Läänemaas was the city of Haapsalu.

The county's territory encompassed a significant portion of the western Estonian coast, including several islands in the Baltic Sea. Historically, Läänemaas was a region with a strong agricultural and fishing economy. Its strategic location also made it a point of interest for various powers throughout history.

In 1949, during the Soviet occupation, Läänemaas was divided and its territory was reorganized into smaller administrative units. The name Läänemaa persisted as a geographical region, but the formal county structure ceased to exist.

After Estonia regained its independence in 1991, the administrative division of the country was reformed. The territory that historically constituted Läänemaas is now primarily part of the modern Lääne County. However, the historical name Läänemaa continues to be used to refer to this western Estonian region, reflecting its long and distinct past. The region is known for its coastal landscapes, historical sites, and cultural heritage.