Kohtla-Järve is a city in northeastern Estonia with a population of over 44,000 people. It is the fifth largest city in Estonia and the capital of Ida-Virumaa County. The city is located in the Ida-Virumaa region, which is known for its oil shale reserves and industrial heritage. The city is also known for its unique history, which dates back to the 13th century.
The earliest known mention of Kohtla-Järve was in 1241, when it was referred to as "Kotla". The name is derived from the Estonian word "kott", meaning "hut". The city was first established as a trading post by the Teutonic Knights in the 13th century, and was part of the Livonian Confederation until 1561.
In the 16th century, the city was part of the Duchy of Estonia, which was a vassal state of the Swedish Empire. During this period, Kohtla-Järve was an important trading post for the region. In 1721, the city was annexed by the Russian Empire, and it became part of the Governorate of Estonia.
In the 19th century, Kohtla-Järve experienced rapid growth due to the development of the oil shale industry. The city was home to several large oil shale mines, and it became an important industrial center for the region. In 1918, Estonia declared its independence from Russia, and Kohtla-Järve became part of the newly independent state.
During the Soviet period, Kohtla-Järve was an important industrial center for the region. The city was home to several large chemical plants and factories, and it was also the site of an infamous labor camp during the Stalinist era. In 1991, Estonia regained its independence, and Kohtla-Järve became part of the newly independent state.
Today, Kohtla-Järve is still an important industrial center for the region. The city is home to several large factories and chemical plants, and it is also a popular tourist destination. The city is home to several historical sites, including the ruins of the Teutonic Knights' castle and the old oil shale mines. The city also has several parks and recreational areas, as well as a vibrant cultural scene.