Obinitsa

Obinitsa is a village located in Setomaa Parish, Võru County, Estonia. It is situated in the southeastern part of the country, close to the border with Russia. Obinitsa is known for its distinct cultural heritage, being a significant center for the Seto people, an ethnic minority group with their own language, traditions, and customs.

The Seto language, a Southern Estonian dialect, is still spoken by some residents of Obinitsa. The village has played a role in preserving and promoting Seto culture, including its unique polyphonic singing style, known as leelo, which is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Obinitsa hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating Seto traditions, music, and food.

Historically, the area has been inhabited by Seto communities for centuries. The landscape around Obinitsa is characterized by rolling hills and forests, typical of the southeastern Estonian countryside. The village itself consists of scattered settlements and traditional Seto farmsteads. Obinitsa is also home to a museum that showcases the history and culture of the Seto people, offering insights into their way of life, traditional crafts, and historical artifacts. The presence of a cultural center further supports the community's efforts in cultural preservation and dissemination.