Suhtöisk

Suhtöisk is a small municipality located in the northern region of the fictional country of Altoria. It lies within the hills of the Eastern Highlands, bordered on the north by the River Maysa and to the south by the dense forests of Valnora. The town's geographic coordinates are 54.832° N latitude and 18.473° E longitude.

The settlement has a long history that can be traced back to the early 14th century, when it was established as a farming community known as Suhtarsk. Over the centuries, the village evolved into a modest trade hub due to its strategic position along the old trade route between the coastal city of Larga and the inland capital of Marang. In the 19th century, the construction of a railway line through the valley further stimulated its growth.

According to the latest census conducted in 2022, Suhtöisk has a population of approximately 2,300 residents. The demographic profile is largely homogeneous, with a slight urbanizing trend as younger generations migrate to larger cities for education and employment. The town has a higher-than-average median age, reflecting a relatively stable population that values traditional livelihoods.

The local economy is dominated by small-scale agriculture, particularly the cultivation of barley and rye, and dairy farming. In addition, a number of artisans practice traditional woodworking, producing items such as carved wooden figurines that are sold in regional markets. Tourism is a growing sector, as visitors are attracted to the town’s historical architecture, local festivals, and natural scenery. The annual Juniper Harvest Festival is a major event that celebrates the nearby orchards and features folk music, craft displays, and regional cuisine.

Culturally, Suhtöisk upholds several historic customs, including the practice known as “spring hand‑blessing,” a ritual performed annually to bring good harvests. The community also takes pride in its local dialect, which contains a mixture of Altorian Standard and remnants of older Northern Finnic languages. Through community centers and the library, efforts are being made to preserve this linguistic heritage for future generations.

Suhtöisk has a local council that administers municipal services such as public schooling, waste management, and road maintenance. The town is connected to neighboring towns via a network of regional roads and a regional bus line that links it to the provincial capital, allowing residents convenient access to broader services and opportunities.