Setomaa

Setomaa is a Finno-Ugric cultural region and one of Estonia's twelve historical counties (maakonnad). It's primarily located in southeastern Estonia, with a smaller portion extending into Russia, specifically within the Pskov Oblast. The area is traditionally inhabited by the Setos, a distinct ethnic and linguistic group with their own unique cultural heritage, including a polyphonic singing tradition called leelo (a UNESCO Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage), distinctive folk costumes, and Orthodox Christian religious practices.

The modern administrative boundary between Estonia and Russia divides the historical Setomaa, leading to challenges in preserving Seto cultural unity. The majority of Seto speakers reside in Estonia.

Setomaa is characterized by its rolling hills, forests, and numerous lakes. Its cultural landscape is dotted with sacred places, traditional farms, and tsässonad, small Seto chapels. The local economy is based on agriculture, forestry, and tourism, particularly cultural tourism focused on the unique Seto heritage. The Seto Kingdom Day (Seto Kuningriigi Päev) is an important annual festival celebrating Seto culture and tradition. The festival culminates in the election of a symbolic "king" (ülebtsoa) and other important figures.