Võromaa

Võromaa is a southeastern cultural and historical region of Estonia, centered on Võru County and tied to the Võro language and culture. The area roughly corresponds to the zone where Võro traditions and identity are strongest. The name reflects the historical and linguistic ties to the Võro people.

The landscape is defined by the Haanja uplands in the northern part of Võru County, part of the Baltic Shield. The uplands include Estonia’s highest point, Suur Munamägi (about 318 metres). The region is characterized by forests, rolling hills, lakes and traditional rural settlements, contributing to a distinctive rural Southeast Estonian character.

Võro people have inhabited the area for centuries; the Võro language, a South Estonian dialect, is spoken there. Since the late 20th century, revival and preservation efforts have accompanied cultural renewal. Institutions such as the Võro Institute and the Võromaa Development Foundation promote Võro language, culture and regional development. The region is known for folk music, regilaul (traditional runic songs) and handicrafts.

The region’s economy is primarily rural, with forestry and agriculture as main activities. Tourism is increasingly important, focused on nature and cultural heritage. Visitors explore nature trails in the Haanja uplands, winter sports, and lakes and villages around Rõuge. Protected areas and scenic landscapes attract hikers, cyclists and those interested in traditional regional culture.

Võromaa is not an official administrative unit; it is a cultural region whose identity is linked to Võru County and neighboring areas. It exists as a framework for promoting Võro language, heritage and regional pride within Estonia.