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Wolf Cave: Finland's Neanderthal History

Explore Finland's prehistoric past at the Wolf Cave in Karijoki, a site potentially inhabited by Neanderthals over 100,000 years ago.

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The Wolf Cave (Susiluola) in Karijoki is a significant archaeological site, potentially the only location in the Nordic countries with Neanderthal artifacts dating back 120,000-130,000 years. While access inside the cave is restricted for safety, a nearby information center and a scenic walking trail offer insights into the area's intriguing past.

A brief summary to Wolf Cave

  • Monday 12:01 pm-12:42 pm
  • Tuesday 12:01 pm-12:42 pm
  • Wednesday 12:01 pm-12:42 pm
  • Thursday 12:01 pm-12:42 pm
  • Friday 12:01 pm-12:42 pm
  • Saturday 12:01 pm-12:42 pm
  • Sunday 12:01 pm-12:42 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Wolf Cave Information Centre first to learn about the cave's history and significance before taking the trail.
  • The walking trail to the cave is about 1 km long, so wear comfortable shoes.
  • The cave is closed during winter to protect it from the elements.
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Getting There

  • Car

    The Wolf Cave is located off route 663 between Kristinestad and Karijoki. From route 663, follow signs to Susiluola. Turn onto Susiluolantie and drive 2.6 km to the parking area at the end of the road. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Wolf Cave using public transport, take a bus to Karijoki. From Karijoki, the Wolf Cave is approximately 2 kilometers away. You can then take a taxi to the site. Taxi fares in Finland can be expensive. A short taxi ride in the area may cost around €20-€30.

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Discover more about Wolf Cave

Nestled in the Pyhävuori mountain near Karijoki, the Wolf Cave, or Susiluola, is a geological fissure holding secrets from the Paleolithic era. The cave's name originates from local hunters who chased a wolf and its cubs into it in the late 1800s. More recently, the cave gained prominence in 1996 when artifacts were discovered, suggesting possible Neanderthal habitation dating back 120,000 to 130,000 years ago. If verified, these would be the only Neanderthal artifacts found in the Nordic countries, potentially rewriting the history of the region. The cave itself is not particularly large, measuring approximately 30 meters deep, 25 meters wide, and just over two meters high. It was formed by erosion over millions of years, with sediment layers accumulating during interglacial periods. Due to research work and the risk of falling rocks, direct access into the Wolf Cave is prohibited. However, visitors can still experience the site by peering through the opening. A visit to the Wolf Cave typically begins at the Wolf Cave Information Centre in Karijoki. The center features exhibitions about the cave, its geology, archaeology, and the history of the region, including an audiovisual presentation. From the Information Centre, a 1 km walking trail leads through the surrounding nature to the cave. Along the path, you'll encounter a stone park, a Bronze Age grave, and a field of stone, offering a glimpse into the area's long history. The trail and surrounding terrain showcase signs of the Ice Age, adding to the unique atmosphere of the site.

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