Setomaa Preserves Heritage Near Russian Border

Setomaa, a region in southeast Estonia, is home to a unique cultural heritage that sets it apart from the rest of the country. The area is known for its distinct identity, shaped by its history, religion, and dialect. Setomaa means “the land of the Seto,” and its people have a strong sense of tradition and community.

The Seto people have a rich cultural heritage, with roots in Orthodox Christianity, which was introduced to the region from Russia. This is reflected in their celebrations, particularly Easter, which is the most important holiday in Setomaa. According to Helen Külvik, a Setomaa native and local guide, “Most Estonians are Lutheran, but Seto belief is rooted in Orthodox Christianity, which came to us from Russia, and which follows the Julian calendar, hence our early Easter.”

The Seto people have a unique culture that is characterized by their traditional clothing, music, and crafts. They are known for their colorful embroidery, silver jewelry, and traditional clothing, which is often worn on special occasions. The Seto people are also proud of their traditional food, which includes dishes such as smoked sausage and bulgur wheat.

One of the most interesting aspects of Seto culture is their traditional smoke sauna, which is used for both practical and spiritual purposes. The sauna is a place where people come to relax, socialize, and purify their bodies and minds. According to Reimi Kerdt, a local resident, “This is a traditional Seto smoke sauna. We keep the windows closed for the whole day to build up the heat, then open them just before we get in to let the smoke out.”

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Easter is a significant holiday in Setomaa, and it is celebrated with great enthusiasm and tradition. The celebrations begin on the eve of Easter, with a procession to the church, where the priest leads the congregation in a ceremony.

The Easter celebrations also include traditional games and activities, such as egg-rolling. According to Helen Külvik, “We must decorate them for tomorrow’s egg-rolling. The onion skin gives the eggs a crimson color, and we make patterns on the shells with rice and wax.”

Despite its rich cultural heritage, Setomaa faces challenges in preserving its traditions and way of life. The region’s location on the border with Russia has made it difficult for the Seto people to maintain their cultural and economic ties with their neighbors. According to Helen Külvik, “Everything changed when Setomaa was divided. But we don’t come here to mourn what we lost. We are too pragmatic. We live on and deal with the things that we can affect.”

However, the Seto people are determined to preserve their cultural heritage and share it with the world. Efforts are being made to promote tourism in the region, which will help to support the local economy and preserve the traditional way of life.

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In practice, this means that visitors to Setomaa can experience the region’s unique culture firsthand, by attending traditional celebrations, trying local food and drinks, and learning about the history and customs of the Seto people. This not only helps to support the local economy but also contributes to the preservation of the region’s cultural heritage, much like a retreat in a rural setting can help preserve traditional ways of life.

Setomaa is approximately 65 miles south of the country’s second city, Tartu, and up against the border with Russia.

For those looking for a unique and authentic experience, Setomaa is a must-visit destination. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality, the region has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Setomaa is a place that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the region’s unique way of life.

It is a place.