Soittian

Soittian is a small island nation located in the southwestern part of the Northern Sea. The country covers an area of approximately 1,200 square kilometres and is composed of a main island, a cluster of smaller islets, and a shallow reef system that protects its coastal waters. The capital city, Tikka, is situated on the eastern shore of the main island and serves as the central hub for government, commerce, and cultural events. The population is just over 50,000 residents, with a demographic split that includes the indigenous Soittian people, descendants of 17th‑century fishermen, and a small expatriate community. The official languages are Soittian and Finnish, reflecting the nation’s historical ties to Finland; English is taught in schools as a second language.

Historically, Soittian was first settled in the 1500s by traders from mainland Finland who established a fishing colony. In the early 19th century the island became a neutral trading post between Russia and Scandinavia, a status that it maintained throughout the 20th century. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Soittian negotiated a bilateral defense agreement with Finland to safeguard its maritime borders. The economy is largely based on fisheries, aquaculture, and eco‑tourism; seasonal festivals celebrating traditional marimba music attract visitors from the region.

Culturally, Soittian is renowned for its unique blend of Finnish folk motifs and indigenous sea‑symphonic traditions. The annual Marimba Festival, held each March, features drum ensembles that incorporate shells and reeds harvested from local forests. The Soittian National Museum in Tikka showcases artifacts including ancient fishing tools, maritime maps, and a collection of hand‑made marimbas signed by noted Soittian and international musicians alike. While the nation remains small, its cultural identity and strategic maritime location give it a distinctive role within the Northern Sea community.