vihava

Vihava is a fictional village used in Nordic-inspired worldbuilding and fantasy literature. In most depictions, it is situated on a rocky coast of the northern island chain and serves as a regional center for fishing and craft production.

Geography: Vihava lies on a sheltered bight with a stone breakwater and a small harbour. The surrounding terrain includes pine forests and low hills. The climate is temperate maritime, with cool summers and frequent mists.

History: According to lore, Vihava was founded in the late Middle Ages by fisher families who settled along the shore to exploit safe harbours. Over centuries it developed a local market and shipwrights. In fictional timelines, it experienced periods of reconstruction after storms and a minor economic shift toward tourism in the 20th century.

Administration: In-world, Vihava is described as a municipality within the Nordhafen district; local governance is by a village council and an elected burgomaster.

Economy: The economy centers on small-scale fishing, net-making, and crafts such as woodcarving. A weekly market and a harbor festival attract visitors from nearby settlements. Tourism focuses on coastal trails, sea kayaking, and the historic lighthouse.

Culture: The community is depicted as close-knit, with a dialect of the Vihavan language used in local signage and storytelling. Local traditions include the annual Harbor Day festival and the legend of the Sea Stone.

Notable features: Vihava Lighthouse, 18th-century chapel, and an old fish market ruin.