Saaremaas

Saaremaas refers to Saaremaa, the largest island of Estonia, located in the Baltic Sea off the country’s western coast. It is part of Saare County and is administered as Saaremaa Parish. The island covers about 2,700 square kilometers and has a population of around 30,000 residents. The administrative center and largest town is Kuressaare.

Geography and environment: Saaremaa features a varied coastline with beaches, bays, and forested interiors. Its geology includes limestone and sandstone formations, and the climate is temperate and maritime, with relatively mild winters and cool summers. Notable sites include the Kaali meteorite crater field, a group of impact craters near Kaali, and coastal features such as windmill parks in Angla and dramatic sea cliffs along the western coast.

History and culture: The island has been inhabited since the Stone Age and has passed through Danish, Livonian, Swedish, and Russian influence before becoming part of independent Estonia. Kuressaare Castle, dating from the 14th century, is a prominent historical landmark. The culture of Saaremaa blends Estonian traditions with local crafts, folklore, and cuisine, and the island hosts various cultural events and festivals, particularly in summer.

Economy and transport: The economy centers on tourism, agriculture, and services. Saaremaa is connected to the Estonian mainland and other islands by road ferries and the Väinatamm causeway to Muhu Island, facilitating road travel across the region. The island’s ports support both domestic and seasonal traffic, supporting visitation to its historic sites and natural attractions.