orstä

Orstä is a coastal municipality and town in the northern region of Nordmark. It encompasses the town of Orstä and several surrounding villages along a sheltered inlet. The area covers approximately 120 square kilometers and features a mix of rocky shorelines, fjord-like inlets, and wooded hinterland. The climate is temperate maritime with cool winters and mild summers.

History: Orstä developed as a fishing village in the medieval period, expanding during the 18th and 19th centuries with the growth of maritime trade. The municipality was established in its current form in 1902.

Population and language: As of the last census, Orstä had around 7,400 inhabitants. The majority speak Nordarian, a language closely related to the regional Scandinavian family; a minority uses Orstran as a local dialect.

Economy: The economy is dominated by fishing, seafood processing, and port services, with growing emphasis on tourism and renewable energy, including a small offshore wind farm and coastal tourism facilities.

Governance: Orstā is governed by a municipal council (15 members) elected for four-year terms. It belongs to the Nordmark regional district and sends representatives to the national assembly.

Culture and landmarks: Notable sites include the 19th-century Orstā Lighthouse, the Old Town Fort, and the Seabird Reserve. The annual Orstra Week festival features maritime heritage demonstrations and local music.

Transportation: The town is connected by the Nordmark Highway 7 and by ferry to neighboring islands. Orstä Airport serves light domestic flights.

Education: There are two primary schools, one secondary school, and a community college.