Viitasaari

Viitasaari is a town and municipality in Finland, located in the Central Finland region. It lies approximately 100 kilometers north of Jyväskylä, the regional capital. The municipality covers an area of 1,251.56 square kilometers, of which 231.48 square kilometers is water. Its population is around 6,300 residents.

The landscape of Viitasaari is characterized by numerous lakes and forests, typical of the Finnish Lakeland. The town is situated on the shores of Lake Keitele, one of Finland's largest lakes. This abundant water system has historically influenced the area's economy, primarily through fishing and forestry.

Historically, Viitasaari was established as a chapel parish in the 17th century and gained municipal status in 1932. The municipality has seen its population fluctuate over the decades, with a general trend of gradual decline in recent years, common in many rural Finnish areas.

Economically, Viitasaari has a diversified base. Key sectors include forestry, wood processing, and services. The town also attracts tourists, particularly during the summer months, drawn by its natural beauty, opportunities for outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and hiking. The annual "Viitasaari Jazz Festival" is a notable cultural event. The main services and infrastructure are concentrated in the central town area.

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