kylämäiset

Kylämäiset is a Finnish term that generally refers to rural settlements or villages. The word itself is a plural form derived from "kylä," meaning village or hamlet. It encompasses the concept of a community of houses located outside of a larger urban center, often characterized by a more traditional or agricultural way of life.

These settlements can vary greatly in size and structure, from small hamlets with only a handful of buildings to larger villages with a more developed infrastructure and a greater population. Historically, kylämäiset were the primary form of human habitation in Finland, with their development closely tied to land use, agriculture, and local resources.

The characteristics of a kylämäinen can include a shared sense of community, interdependence among residents, and often a reliance on natural surroundings. While urbanization has led to a decline in the population of some rural areas, many kylämäiset continue to exist, representing an important aspect of Finnish cultural heritage and landscape. The term can also be used in a broader sense to describe anything that is village-like in character, even if it's not a formally designated village.