Straitland (0)

Straitland
Historical Facts
Straitland has served as a junction of international trade routes for Vikings . Long struggle of power with foreign intruders has left ancient strongholds in Valjala , Lihula and Soontagana. The churches in Muhu, Valjala, Mustjala, Karja and Kihelkonna are honorable and elderly because Straitland was the one to bring Christianity to Estonia. The castle of Kuressaare is still standing proudly, but in Lihula only ruins can be seen . The patterns of national dresses and the churches bring memories of secret sign cultures of Medieval Times . Good knowledge of singing and facility of speech of the people of Straitland have given Estonia a big number of writers and poets .
Character of the landscape
The area of Straitland contains Pärnumaa county and some of the islands such as Saaremaa, Muhu, Kihnu, Ruhnu and Abruka . Straitland is low- lying and flat . It was flooded by the sea for much longer than the rest of mainland Estonia. The climate is maritime and greatly influenced by the Baltic Sea. The area features large bogs, extensive forests , coastal plains, warm and peaceful beaches, the lake Kaali with its mystical meteorite flight and a number of offshore islands. The islanders have their own customs, national costumes and speak their own local dialects. Thousands of birds visit Straitland areas during their spring and autumn migrations.
Sights and Tourism
Pärnu is the summer capital of Estonia. In summer, the population of forty- four thousand grows tenfold. Its beach , seaside parks , squirrels hopping in the trees , sanatoriums and rest homes, curative sea-mud and holidaymakers are its characteristic features. Pärnu as a summer resort dates back to the 19th century . The first bathing institution started operations in Pärnu in 1838. Pärnu also offers great year - round opportunities for organizing