maakondade

Maakonnad, or counties, are the top-level administrative subdivisions of Estonia. The country is divided into 15 maakonnad, each containing numerous municipalities, including cities and rural municipalities. Maakonnad provide a framework for regional planning, development, and the coordination of public services across their territory.

The counties function as regional layers between the national government and local governments. They are responsible for coordinating infrastructure, education, social services, and cultural initiatives, and they support municipalities in implementing national policies at the regional level.

The 15 counties are: Harju maakond; Hiiumaa maakond; Ida-Viru maakond; Jõgeva maakond; Järva maakond; Lääne maakond; Lääne-Viru maakond; Põlva maakond; Pärnu maakond; Rapla maakond; Saare maakond; Tartu maakond; Valga maakond; Viljandi maakond; Võru maakond.

Each county has its own administrative center, typically the principal town or city within its borders, and often carries a distinct regional identity tied to historical and cultural characteristics. The maakond structure remains a key element of Estonia’s system of regional governance, playing a significant role in regional development, statistical reporting, and policy planning across the country.