Mandriinias

Mandriinias is a small, uninhabited island located in the central part of the Gulf of Finland, between the Estonian mainland and the island of Hiiumaa. The island is part of the Hiiumaa Parish in Hiiu County, Estonia, and is one of the smallest inhabited islands in the country, though it is currently uninhabited.

The island covers an area of approximately 0.1 square kilometers and is characterized by its rocky coastline, sparse vegetation, and limited natural resources. Historically, Mandriinias has been used primarily for fishing and as a seasonal grazing area for livestock. Its strategic location in the Gulf of Finland has made it a point of interest for maritime navigation throughout history.

During the Soviet occupation of Estonia, Mandriinias was briefly inhabited, serving as a small military outpost. However, after Estonia regained independence in 1991, the outpost was abandoned, and the island has since remained uninhabited. The lack of permanent residents has allowed the island to retain much of its natural state, though occasional visitors and researchers occasionally explore its shores.

Mandriinias is accessible only by boat, as there are no roads or bridges connecting it to the mainland or other islands. The island’s remoteness and limited accessibility contribute to its preservation as a relatively untouched piece of coastal landscape. While not a major tourist destination, it holds historical and ecological significance for local communities and environmental studies.

The island’s name, *Mandriinias*, is of Estonian origin, derived from the word *mandriin*, meaning "dry land" or "island," reflecting its small, landlocked nature within the surrounding waters. Efforts to protect and monitor Mandriinias have been minimal, but its ecological value as part of the Gulf of Finland’s marine ecosystem remains recognized.