tælle

Tälle is a toponym used in parts of the Nordic region to designate small rural settlements. The exact origin of the name is uncertain; in some cases it may derive from older local languages or from geographic descriptors that described the site to travelers and locals.

Across Sweden and Finland, as well as neighboring areas, Tälle refers to several localities rather than a single place. These settlements are typically village-sized and situated in countryside landscapes such as forests or farmland. Administration is handled by larger municipalities or church parishes, with Tälle often comprising a few farms, a cluster of houses, or a small village center.

Historically, places named Tälle began as farmsteads or small hamlets in the medieval period or later, sometimes near waterways or trade routes. Over time, some have dwindled in population due to urban migration, while others maintain local significance through agriculture, forestry, or seasonal tourism.

Demographics and economy: Populations are usually small, ranging from a few dozen to several hundred residents, depending on location and infrastructure. The local economy remains predominantly rural, with dairy farming, crop production, forestry, and related crafts as common activities; nearby towns often supply services and markets.

Notable features often cited in regional records include historic farm buildings, roadside chapels, or natural features such as groves or springs that historically informed place naming. See also: other Nordic toponyms with similar spellings.