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Astuvansalmi Rock Paintings: Ancient Art by Lake Saimaa

Discover ancient Nordic rock art at Astuvansalmi, Mikkeli: Finland's prehistoric treasure on the shores of Lake Saimaa. Explore art dating back 6000 years!

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Explore the ancient Astuvansalmi rock paintings in Mikkeli, Finland, the largest rock art site in the Nordic countries. These prehistoric paintings, dating back 4,000 to 6,000 years, depict animals, humans, and boats, offering a glimpse into the beliefs and daily life of the people who lived in the Lake Saimaa region millennia ago.

A brief summary to Astuvansalmi rock paintings

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear appropriate footwear for the forest trail, as it can be rocky and uneven.
  • Consider visiting during the summer for boat tours offering unique views of the rock paintings from Lake Saimaa.
  • Bring drinking water, especially if hiking the nature trail.
  • Take care when exploring the cliffs, especially with children, as there are high drop-offs.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the parking area on Suurlahdentie 2039, follow the nature trail to the Astuvansalmi rock paintings. The trail is just under 3 km long and suitable for children, leading through the forest to the rock face. There is no entrance fee to access the trail or view the paintings.

  • Boat Tour

    Several boat tours to Astuvansalmi depart from Ristiina, Varkaantaipale, and other locations around Lake Saimaa. A RIB boat cruise from Ristiina Boat Dock costs approximately €49 for adults and €25 for children (4-12 years). The cruise includes a guided tour and life jackets, lasting about 2.5 hours. Some tours include a stop for coffee or a meal at additional cost.

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Discover more about Astuvansalmi rock paintings

Astuvansalmi, located in Ristiina, Mikkeli, is home to the largest rock painting site in the Nordic countries. These ancient artworks are found on a steep rock wall along Lake Yövesi, part of the vast Lake Saimaa. The paintings, created between 4000-2200 BC, offer a unique window into Finland's prehistoric past. The paintings feature over 80 figures, including elks, people, boats, and handprints. One notable figure is a female holding a bow, often referred to as the 'Artemis of Astuva'. The images were painted using red ochre, likely mixed with animal fat or blood. The paintings are located 4-9 meters above the current water level, indicating the lake's higher level when they were created. It is believed that the paintings were made either from boats or atop the ice during winter. The rock face itself is remarkable, resembling a human face in profile when viewed from the lake. This natural feature likely contributed to the site's significance as a sacred place for ancient people. Archaeological discoveries in the area, including amber pendants and arrowheads, suggest the site was used for rituals and spiritual practices. Visitors can explore the paintings via a nature trail through the forest. Alternatively, boat tours offer a unique perspective, allowing visitors to see the rock face from the water, just as the original artists did. These tours often depart from Ristiina and nearby locations.

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