Hiiumaa

Hiiumaa
Name	Hiiumaa
Location	Baltic Sea
Archipelago	West Estonian archipelago
Area km2	989
Highest mount	Tornimägi
Elevation m	68
Country	Estonia
Country admin divisions title	County
Country admin divisions	Hiiu County
Country largest city	Kärdla
Country largest city population	3,010
Population	9,558
Population as of	2021
Density km2	9.7

Hiiumaa. It is the second largest island in Estonia, situated in the Baltic Sea as part of the West Estonian archipelago. The island is administered as Hiiu County, with its capital and only town being Kärdla. Known for its lighthouses, serene nature, and distinct cultural heritage, it is a popular destination for tourism and nature conservation.

Geography

Hiiumaa is located north of the larger island of Saaremaa, separated by the Soela Strait. The island's coastline is deeply indented, featuring numerous peninsulas, bays, and islets such as Kassari and Kõrgessaare. Its terrain is relatively flat, with the highest point being Tornimägi at 68 meters above sea level. A significant portion of the land is covered by forests, while the Käina Bay is an important wetland area part of the Hiiumaa Islets Landscape Reserve. The bedrock is primarily composed of Silurian limestone, and the island is noted for its lack of natural rivers, with several artificial channels like the Sõru Channel aiding drainage.

History

Archaeological evidence suggests settlement dating back to the 4th century BC. The island was historically known as *Dagö* in Swedish and played a role in Viking trade routes. In 1228, it became part of the Bishopric of Ösel–Wiek following the Livonian Crusade. Control later passed to the Teutonic Order and then to Sweden after the Livonian War. Under the Treaty of Nystad in 1721, it was incorporated into the Russian Empire. During World War I, it was occupied by German forces following the Operation Albion. It became part of independent Estonia in 1918, was annexed by the Soviet Union in 1940, and saw German occupation from 1941 to 1944. It was restored to Estonia following the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991.

Demographics

The population has been steadily declining, with a 2021 census recording 9,558 inhabitants. The vast majority are Estonians, with a small minority of ethnic Russians. The population density is among the lowest in Estonia. The main population center is the town of Kärdla, which is home to nearly one-third of the island's residents. Other significant villages include Käina, Kõrgessaare, and Emmaste. The island has a notably high proportion of elderly residents, a common demographic trend in rural Estonia.

Economy

The traditional economic pillars are agriculture, forestry, and fishing. In recent decades, tourism has become increasingly vital, centered around nature, geotourism, and historical sites like lighthouses. Key employers include the port of Heltermaa, the Kärdla Airport, and various small and medium-sized enterprises in food processing and crafts. The island is also known for the production of Hiiumaa vodka and local dairy products. The Hiiumaa Wind Farm represents investments in renewable energy, leveraging the island's windy conditions.

Culture and landmarks

Hiiumaa is renowned for its historic lighthouses, including Kõpu Lighthouse, one of the oldest operating lighthouses in the world, and Ristna Lighthouse. The Hiiumaa Museum in Kärdla details local history. The island hosts cultural events such as the Hiiumaa Folk Music Festival and the Kassari Island is known for its traditional stone fences and the Sääretirp peninsula. Notable architectural heritage includes the Suuremõisa Manor and the Pühalepa Church. The unique dialect and traditions of the Hiidlased people are an integral part of the island's identity.

Transport

The primary year-round connection to the mainland is the ferry service operated by TS Laevad between Heltermaa and Rohuküla on the mainland. A ferry also connects Sõru port to Triigi on Saaremaa. Kärdla Airport offers regular flights to Tallinn operated by NyxAir. Internal transport relies on a network of roads, with the main highway being Route 84. Public bus services connect major villages, and cycling is popular among tourists exploring the island's scenic landscapes.

Category:Islands of Estonia Category:Baltic Sea islands Category:Counties of Estonia