Estonia

Estonia's history is marked by a series of foreign dominations and struggles for independence. The region has been inhabited since around 9000 BC, and throughout its history, it has been a battleground for various powers including the Danes, Germans, Swedes, and Russians. During the Middle Ages, it was part of the Livonian Confederation, later coming under Swedish control in the 16th century, and then being ceded to Russia in 1721 following the Great Northern War. Estonia enjoyed a brief period of independence between 1918 and 1940, following the Estonian War of Independence against Bolshevik Russia and Baltic German forces. However, Estonia's modern struggles are perhaps most poignantly encapsulated in the 20th century. The country was occupied by the Soviet Union in 1940, then by Nazi Germany from 1941 to 1944, before being re-occupied by the Soviets. This period saw significant repression, including the mass deportation and execution of Estonians. The Estonian national spirit remained resilient, culminating in the "Singing Revolution" of the late 1980s, a series of peaceful demonstrations that used song to foster national unity and resist Soviet rule. This movement, alongside other Baltic states' efforts, ultimately led to the restoration of independence in 1991, following the collapse of the Soviet Union.

The house in the image you provided is an example of a traditional Estonian farmhouse, known as a "rehielamu." These types of houses are characteristic of rural Estonia and reflect the practical and cultural heritage of Estonian architecture. The traditional farmhouse typically combines living quarters with agricultural spaces under one long, thatched roof. This design provides insulation and protection against the harsh Estonian winters.

Estonia Open Air Musem #1

Estonia Open Air Musem #2

Estonia Open Air Musem #3

Thatch Roofs, the steeply pitched thatch roof helps to shed snow and rain, preventing water damage and providing a natural form of insulation.

Compact Form; the compact form minimizes heat loss, crucial in Estonia’s cold climate. The design ensures that the warmth from the living spaces can help to keep the agricultural areas warm enough to prevent stored produce from freezing.

Estonia Open Air Musem #4

Estonia Open Air Musem #5

The harsh winters required structures that were well-insulated and capable of retaining heat. The combination of living and working spaces under one roof not only conserved warmth but also facilitated a self-sufficient way of life. The use of local materials and practical design features like the thatched roof ensured that these homes were both economical to build and maintain, while also blending seamlessly into the natural landscape.

Today, they stand as cultural monuments, offering a glimpse into Estonia's rural heritage.

They protect their nature as if their life depend on it, actually it already is.

Old town, Center of Tallinn.

Old Town, Center of Tallinn #2

Population of Estonia is 1,365,884 persons.

From Viru Bog

Viru Bog, the area of the bog is 235 ha.

Estonia has a rich history intertwined with folklore and mythology, particularly involving witches. Historically, witchcraft in Estonia was often associated with healing and herbal medicine. Many traditional Estonian healers, known as "witches," were respected for their knowledge of natural remedies and were believed to possess supernatural abilities. During the 17th and 18th centuries, Estonia experienced witch hunts similar to other parts of Europe, although on a smaller scale. These hunts were driven by the Lutheran Church and the local authorities, targeting those accused of practicing witchcraft.

This photo taken in Tartu, Estonia. This house is considered as witch house.

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