Oksassa

Oksassa is a coastal town and municipality on the southern shore of the island of Valen in the Noravian archipelago. It is the administrative center of the Valen district and, as of 2020, had a population of about 9,500. The town sits in a sheltered harbor that has long served as a fishing and trading port.

The name Oksassa is believed to derive from Noravian words meaning shelter and harbor, reflecting its protective inlet and historic function as a docking place. Oksassa's economy combines commercial fishing, seafood processing, ship repair, and growing tourism, with craft markets and waterfront cafés forming the core of the local economy.

Historically, settlement at Oksassa dates to the 12th century; the town expanded during the 18th and 19th centuries with the development of maritime trade and the arrival of steam ferries. The built environment mixes late-medieval foundations with 19th-century and early 20th-century renovations, including the Oksassa Fort and a lighthouse that remains active.

Culturally, Oksassa hosts the annual Harbor Festival, featuring boat races, music, and seafood stalls. Local cuisine emphasizes fish, seaweed soups, and grilled shellfish. Points of interest include the Old Lighthouse, the Fort, and the Market Hall, which houses artisans and fishmongers.

Transport links include a regional airport nearby, regular ferry services to neighboring islands, and a small bus network connecting residential districts with the town center.

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