Läänevirumaa

Lääne-Viru County, or Läänevirumaa, is a county in northern Estonia. It is bordered by Ida-Viru County to the east, Jõgeva County to the south, and Harju County to the west. The Baltic Sea lies to the north of the county. The administrative center and largest city is Rakvere.

The landscape of Lääne-Viru County is diverse, featuring a mix of coastal plains, forests, and agricultural land. The northern part of the county is characterized by the Pandivere Upland, a karst area known for its numerous springs and sinkholes. The southern part is more dominated by forests and swamps. The Käsmu Peninsula, also known as the "Captain's Village," is a notable geographical feature on the coast, with its distinctive rocky shores and historical maritime traditions.

Historically, the region has been inhabited for millennia, with evidence of early settlements found throughout the county. During the medieval period, it was part of the Danish and later German possessions in Estonia. The county's current administrative boundaries were largely established during the Tsarist era.

The economy of Lääne-Viru County is based on agriculture, forestry, and industry, particularly food processing and manufacturing. Tourism also plays a role, with attractions including the Lahemaa National Park, which partially lies within the county, and the historical Rakvere Castle. The county has a well-developed road network, connecting it to other parts of Estonia.