Learn all about the lives of the nomadic tribes that live in Lapland. Examine artifacts that reveal the evolution of their way of life at the Fell-Lapland Nature Centre. See amazing photos of how this stunning environment changes and follow the path through history of one of Finland’s most well-loved creatures.
A large amount of the centre is taken up with the Vuovjjuš exhibit that is dedicated to the history of the wandering Sámi people. View the thick clothes that were designed to keep out the harshest of Arctic winds and look inside a traditional camp. Examples of wooden bowls and utensils used for cooking and eating are also displayed.
The Sámi relied heavily on the services of reindeer. These humble creatures are celebrated in the Time of the Deer display. This exhibit looks at how reindeer have evolved since the Ice Age and the ways that man has used their skin and meat for food and shelter. Don’t miss the examples of old sleds that were used to carry essential belongings across the snow.
Continue on from here to the small room which exhibits a selection of exquisite hand-crafted birds native to northern Finland. The artist and sculptor Lauri Pappila, who lives in the area, created these lifelike wooden birds.
Bring children to their own exhibit, called Nestling. This uses fun, hands-on games and diagrams to explain why animals migrate to and from Lapland through the year. Watch the short film about nature and culture in the north.
The Fell-Lapland Nature Centre is a 5-minute drive east from the town of Hetta in Enontekiö. The centre is open Monday to Friday and has no admission fee. If you decide to stay for a few hours, visit the café that serves hot and cold drinks as well as simple meals.
