Suomussalmi

Suomussalmi is a municipality in Finland, located in the region of Kainuu. The municipality has a total population of around 8,500 people and covers an area of approximately 4,969 square kilometers. It is situated in the northeastern part of the country, bordering the municipalities of Paltamo and Ristijärvi to the south, Hyrynsalmi and Puolanka to the north, and the Russian Federation to the east.

The municipality is divided into several districts, including Suomussalmi, Pusa, Lestujärvi, and Saaripohja. The most populous district is Suomussalmi, which is also the administrative center of the municipality. The town is known for its scenic lake Berghamts, which offers a range of outdoor activities including fishing, boating, and skiing.

Historically, the region of Suomussalmi has been inhabited by the Sami people and other indigenous groups. The area gained international attention during World War II, when a significant battle took place between Soviet and Finnish forces in December 1940, known as the Battle of Suomussalmi. The battle resulted in a major defeat for the Soviet forces.

Today, Suomussalmi is a rural and sparsely populated area, with the main industries including forestry, agriculture, and small-scale manufacturing. The municipality has invested in developing its infrastructure and promoting tourism, with an emphasis on outdoor activities and cultural heritage.

The official language of the municipality is Finnish, and the local dialect is Kainuu dialect, which is a variant of the standard Finnish language.