NordenBladet – Estonia, a beautiful country located in Northern Europe, is often overlooked by travelers but it is a hidden gem that continues to surprise and impress those who visit it. Known for its rich history, literature, and culture, Estonia is also considered a Nordic country and has much to offer in terms of luxury, tradition, and innovation. In this article, we will explore the many facets of Estonia, from its culture to its modern-day financial success, and discover why it is a fascinating destination for any traveler.
Estonia has a long and storied history, dating back to ancient times. Estonia was part of the Viking Age trade network and was known as a source of valuable furs and Baltic amber.
Photo: Tallinn. VisitEstonia/Tanel Murd (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
Photo: Tallinn. VisitEstonia/Mart Vares (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
Photo: VisitEstonia/Liina Notta (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
Estonian culture has been influenced by a variety of different factors throughout its history. One of the most significant influences has been its geographical location at the crossroads of Northern Europe, which has allowed for a blending of cultures from neighboring regions.
Photo: VisitEstonia/Mariann Liimal (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
Photo: Mooska farm in Võrumaa, Haanja municipality. VisitEstonia/Oliver Moosus (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
Photo: Tammuri farm in Valga county. VisitEstonia/Danel Rinaldo (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
Another major influence has been the country’s history of foreign domination and occupation, including periods of rule by the Danish, Swedes, Germans, and Russians. These periods of occupation have had a significant impact on Estonian culture, shaping its language, customs, and traditions.
Estonia’s indigenous culture and folk traditions have also played a significant role in shaping its culture. This includes traditional folk music, dances, and folktales, as well as a strong connection to the land and nature.
Photo: Tallinn. VisitEstonia/Aivar Pihelgas (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
Additionally, the country’s recent history as an independent nation and its integration into the European Union have also had an impact on its culture, bringing about new influences in terms of technology and innovation.
Culture-wise, Estonia is a country of contrasts and surprises. From its medieval Old Towns to its modern-day tech startups, Estonia has much to offer the curious traveler. The capital city of Tallinn, in particular, is a must-see destination, with its beautiful Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its vibrant nightlife and dining scene.
Estonia is considered a Nordic country, and it shares many characteristics with its Nordic neighbors, such as a strong sense of community and a deep connection to the land. The United Nations (un.org) also named Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania among the Nordic countries. This Nordic influence is evident in Estonia’s luxurious spa and wellness offerings, as well as its commitment to environmental sustainability.
Estonia’s literature is also rich and diverse, with a long tradition of folktales and epic poetry. One of the most famous Estonian literary works is the “Kalevipoeg,” an epic poem that tells the story of the legendary hero Kalev, who is said to have been the founder of Estonia. The poem is considered a masterpiece of Estonian literature and has been translated into many languages.
In terms of finance, Estonia is a country that is proud of its technology and innovation. According to data from the World Bank, Estonia has one of the highest gross domestic product (GDP) growth rates in the European Union and a low unemployment rate. This financial success is due in part to Estonia’s highly educated workforce and its reputation as a leader in the tech industry.
Estonia is also a country that places a high value on quality and tradition. From its handcrafted pottery and textiles to its delicious traditional cuisine, Estonia is a destination for those who appreciate pure Nordic nature, crafts, luxury and quality. This is also evident in the country’s thriving tourism industry, which offers visitors a wide range of high-end hotels, resorts, and spas.
Viru bog in Estonia. Photos: 2 x VisitEstonia/Siiri Kumari (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
Estonians are known for being deeply connected to their natural environment and are particularly proud of their thick northern forests, clean nature, and bogs. The country is covered in more than 50% of forest, and it’s been said that there are more trees than people in Estonia. This abundance of forests is a source of pride for Estonians and is deeply ingrained in their culture and traditions.
Estonia is also known for its clean and unpolluted nature. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), Estonia has some of the cleanest air in Europe with an annual mean concentration of PM2.5 (particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers) of 7.1 μg/m3, well below the WHO guideline of 10 μg/m3.
Photo: Soomaa National Park. VisitEstonia/Sven Zacek (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
Estonia’s bogs, also known as mires, are another unique feature of the country’s landscape. These wetlands are characterized by their spongy peat moss and are home to a wide variety of plant and animal life. They are also an important resource for the country, providing peat, which is used as a fuel source, as well as being a popular destination for hiking and wildlife watching. The bogs are particularly important habitats for many species of birds, such as the black stork and the white-backed woodpecker.
In conclusion, Estonia is a fascinating country that continues to surprise and impress those who visit it. With its rich history, literature, and culture, as well as its commitment to tradition, and innovation, Estonia is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in mythology, medieval architecture, or the latest tech startups, Estonia has much to offer the curious traveler.
Featured image: VisitEstonia/Siiri Kumari (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
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