Sõrve Peninsula

Sõrve Peninsula ( _et. Sõrve poolsaar) is a peninsula which forms the southernmost section of the Estonian island Saaremaa. Its length is 32 km, and its maximum width 10 km. South of it lies Irbe Strait, the main entrance to the Gulf of Riga of the Baltic Sea.

Administratively, it comprises Torgu Commune and Salme Commune, both in Saare County

Historically, the peninsula had considerable military significance, dominating the Irbe Strait and the sea route to Riga. In the first half of the 20th century strong coastal batteries were installed on it by Imperial Russia up to 1917 and then by the Soviet Union after 1940. In the course of World War II, the peninsula saw major fighting between Soviet and German forces, first in 1941 with the Germans attacking and the Soviets defending, and again in 1944 with the roles reversed.

Even now, more than 60 years after the war it is dangerous to walk in undeveloped forest areas because many land mines remain. However the forests are also filled with abandoned military equipment. Mostly corroded but some surprises may still be uncovered. The old folks have spoken that in one of the swamps lies a Königstiger. It's not true unfortunately because no Königstigers were in Estonia by the records. But as the Estonian saying goes, "In every river we have an airplane and in every swamp we have a Königstiger".

The Sõrve peninsula is also known for its unique and special natural attractions. Many rare species of birds, flowers and insects can be found throughout Sõrve.

About 400 people live there throughout the year, but most of the people are retired. Before the war, Sõrve was the most densely inhabited rural area in Estonia.