A hamlet is a small settlement with varying definitions globally. In Afghanistan, it's a fortified qala, while in Canada, some are large urban service areas. France's hameau often sits within estate gardens, and in Germany, a Weiler lacks central facilities. India's terms for hamlets reflect its linguistic diversity, and in the UK, the definition changes by country. The US uses 'hamlet' differently by state, and in Vietnam, a hamlet is a small administrative division.
Show More
Hamlets have different definitions and characteristics depending on the country or region
Qala or Qal'eh
In Afghanistan, hamlets are known as qalas or qal'ehs, which are fortified clusters of homes with a mosque but no commercial center
Types of Municipalities
In Canada, hamlets are recognized as types of municipalities, with some functioning similarly to civil townships in the United States
In Germany, hamlets are known as Weilers and may consist of clustered or dispersed farms without central facilities
Regional Variations
In India, the term for hamlets varies by region, reflecting the country's linguistic diversity
Terms for Hamlets
In Indonesia, hamlets are referred to as dusuns or banjars, depending on the locale
In Poland, hamlets are known as przysiółeks or osadas and are considered rural settlements
Legal Classification
In Romania, hamlets, known as cătunes, are legally classified as villages
Regional Differences
In the United Kingdom, the definition of a hamlet varies by country, with different terms used in England, Scotland, and Wales
In Pakistan, hamlets are referred to by various terms, such as gaaon, mauza, or kalay, and are often synonymous with villages
In Turkey, small rural settlements on the outskirts of villages are called mezras
Diverse Meanings
In the United States, the term 'hamlet' can refer to historical settlements, unincorporated communities, or a form of local governance for small communities
Administrative Division
In Vietnam, hamlets, known as xóms or ấps, are the smallest unofficial administrative divisions within a commune or township
00
Hamlet definition variation
A hamlet's definition changes globally; less populated than a village.
01
Hamlet in France: hameau
In France, a hameau is a rural settlement, not necessarily meeting village criteria.
02
18th-century French elite trend
French nobility often built ornamental hamlets within estate gardens in the 1700s.
