Kihnu is a tiny island surrounded by the Baltic Sea near the eastern coast of Estonia on the western coast of the island. The Kihnu Archipelago is made up of a dozen other islands, including Kihnu and Manija Islands. These islands are only inhabited during the summer months. The territory of the islands is 16.9 km2, they are 7 km in length, and 3 km in width. About 530 residents live in four villages on the island. Manija (1.9 km2), one of the smallest inhabited islands in Estonia, has a population of 40 islanders. Manija lies within the Kihnu Cultural Space.
Kihnu Cultural Space is a complex, permanent cultural phenomenon of the communities of Kihnu and Manija Islands. It is a continuation of the communal lifestyles, cultural expressions, and environment that have kept the Kihnu and Manija Islands alive for centuries. Kihnu was an island of seafarers, fishermen, and seal hunters. Over the course of many years, the Kihnu men spent a great deal of time at sea, which left the women to run the island’s affairs. The result was that the women of Kihnu became the guardians and bearers of the island’s cultural traditions, including handicrafts, games, dance, and music. They wore the traditional handmade Kihnu folk costume skirt, also known as a ‘kört’ in the local dialect, every day.
The most visible symbol of Kihnu culture remains the woolen handicrafts worn by the women within the community. The women weave and knit mittens, stockings, skirts, and blouses using traditional looms and local wool, frequently in bright colors and brightly striped patterns. Some of the symbols and colors on these striking garments are found in ancient legends. Besides its rich cultural heritage, the Kihnu cultural space is also distinguished by the interrelation of its ecological and cultural heritage. Both islands have a landscape comprised of grasslands, pine groves, and coastal sands that have remained relatively intact for a long period.
Their geographical isolation has enabled the Kihnu people to preserve their customs and traditions, which are connected to their cultures and centuries-old traditions. The Kihnu people have preserved their crafts and customs by maintaining their sense of community spirit. Their steadfast attachment to the customs of their ancestors can be seen in everyday life. Many of these traditions have remained unchanged over the years, including ceremonies related to marriage, such as the three-day wedding celebration. Many customs are observed on Midsummer Day, St. Martin's Day, St. Catherine's Day, and other calendar holidays. This makes the island a particularly interesting place to visit during religious or folk celebrations. Currently, Kihnu culture is at risk due to economic hardship, uncontrolled housing developments, and the invasion of tourists who are not respectful of local traditions and the island's natural environment.
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