Oravais

Oravais is a village and former municipality in Western Finland. It is located in the Ostrobothnia region, specifically within the municipality of Vörå. The area is known for its coastal landscape and bilingual population, with both Finnish and Swedish speakers. Historically, Oravais has been a significant location, particularly for its role in the Finnish War of 1809. The Battle of Oravais, fought in September of that year, was a decisive engagement between Swedish and Russian forces. This battle is considered one of the most important events of the war, which ultimately led to Finland being ceded from Sweden to Russia. The battle site is now a memorial and a place of historical interest. The economy of Oravais has traditionally been based on agriculture and small-scale industry. In recent years, there has been an emphasis on rural tourism, leveraging the natural beauty and historical significance of the area. The village itself retains a distinct character with its rural architecture and community feel. Oravais was consolidated into the municipality of Vörå in 2011.