The indigenous Saami people - the guardians of the north

Deep in the north, where the cool air of the Arctic spreads over the boreal zone with the last intact primeval forests of Europe across vast plains, is the home of the Saami people. The Saami are the last indigenous people of Europe, the original inhabitants of Scandinavia and the Russian north. They inhabit a region also known as the "Sápmi". This extends over four countries: Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia.

The area of Jåhkågaska tjiellde - "the Saami community between the two rivers"

The Saami in Sweden

The Saami in Sweden have a rich and diverse history, deeply rooted in the mountainous regions and deep forests of the north. Their culture, traditions and languages have survived the mills of time, despite centuries of marginalization and attempts at assimilation. With a strong connection to nature, especially reindeer herding, they are the last nomads of Europe.

Reindeer herding is not only a symbol of their identity, but also a vital industry. Many Sami families still move with their reindeer herds following the 8 seasons and the associated migration routes of the animals. The lifestyle allows them to live in close connection with nature, a close bond shaped by centuries of traditions and survival skills above the Arctic Circle.

Culture

Their culture is characterized by unique traditions and rituals, which are reflected in their music, art and traditional crafts. The "joik", a special style of singing often heard in Sami music, tells stories of people, animals, places and experiences. Their art, especially the "duodji" (traditional crafts), reflects the natural materials and forms of nature in the Arctic Circle and combines practical functionality with art.

The Saami languages are unique and belong to the Uralic language family. Although the Saami were often suppressed in the past, they are now experiencing a renaissance thanks to educational initiatives and cultural renewal. Despite their strong culture, however, the Sami face numerous challenges. From land rights to climate change and cultural assimilation; they are constantly fighting to preserve their identity and way of life.

The knowledge and recognition of the Saami in Sweden is of great importance. It is about respecting the history, traditions and cultural heritage as well as the rights of an indigenous people who, despite all adversity, have preserved their unique habitat in the Arctic Circle.

Eight seasons

For the Saami, the seasons are more than just a change in weather and temperature. They are a living expression of their deep connection with nature and a source of boundless wisdom. The eight seasons play a central role in their culture, each with its own beauty and meaning. Let yourself be enchanted by these seasons and join us on a journey that will deepen your understanding of this precious nature and the Saami's unique way of life.

Winter - Dálve - Season of Care

In the midst of the icy cold lies a world of indescribable beauty and fragility. The earth rests beneath a protective blanket of shimmering snow, while millions of glittering crystals cover its surface. The reindeer brave the harsh winter conditions and move carefully to conserve their energy. Every step through the deep snow tells of their adaptability and unwavering will to survive in temperatures as low as -40 degrees. With their hooves, they dig through the meter-thick masses of snow to expose the nutritious lichens that grow on the ground. The sun slowly fights its way back into the northern sky and provides hopeful light. In the dance of the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), the snow crystals shine with a magical glitter that touches us deeply.

It is the time when we herd the reindeer on their traditional winter grazing land in the deep forests.

Late winter - Giddadálve - the season of awakening

The days are gradually getting lighter and there is a hint of change in the air. The icicles are slowly melting, as if they were shedding tears of joy. A soft whisper of awakening pervades nature and creates anticipation for days of light. The female reindeer, cautiously carrying new life within them, look expectantly towards the northwest. Their longing for the familiar places in the mountains, where they give birth to their calves year after year, is great. We sense the connection between mother and child that manifests itself in this cycle of life and demonstrates an act of pure devotion.

During this time, the families try to keep the reindeer together in the winter grazing lands, it is hard work which ensures that the reindeer stay together in large groups and do not migrate.

Spring - Gidda - the season of return

In spring, the female reindeer return to their calving grounds in the high mountains, where they give birth to their calves in the same places where they themselves were once born. Before the reindeer reach the mountains, they are guided on their way by the local Sami reindeer herders, who slowly walk with the herds along the valleys, rivers and frozen lakes where the reindeer have been coming for thousands of years. In these sacred places, the calves gather strength for the journey ahead. Their clumsy steps symbolize hope and renewal. This is also the time when the Sami fish for the colorful arctic char that have grown under thick layers of ice to feed their families.

Early summer - Giddageassi - season of growth

Nature awakens in all its glory. The last snow melts, the earth is clothed in lush green and the vegetation reaches for the sky. It is the time of eternal light in which darkness no longer exists. The air is filled with a sweet scent as the reindeer gently lead their young calves through the majestic landscapes. Here, in the midst of this untouched nature, the calves experience protection and security. They grow up strengthened by the wisdom of the older animals and their unconditional devotion to their herd.

Summer - Geassi - the season of reflection

The short but intense summer is a time for reflection. The reindeer and the Sami stand side by side, at one with nature. The calves need to be marked, and while the Sami pay attention to them, they realize how precious each individual life is. The reindeer use the abundance of nature to build up their energy reserves, as they will soon put on their magnificent fall coats. As they grow and thrive, the sight of them fills people with deep wonder and gratitude.

The light, warmth and gentle rain have transformed nature into a veritable cornucopia. Juicy berries, aromatic herbs and tasty mushrooms are the gifts of the earth. Harvest time is now beginning and the precious treasures of nature are harvested with great care. In these moments of harmony with nature, people feel how closely connected they are to this unique landscape and its creatures. They understand the importance of treating the flora and fauna with respect and the desire to preserve it for future generations.

Autumn - Tjakttja - season of driving force

Autumn heralds the departure from the lush summer. There is a cool breeze in the air as the golden grass covers the land. Time urges the earth to rest and prepares it for its imminent sleep. With every step the Sami take through this ephemeral beauty, they acknowledge the cycle of life. Darkness is approaching, but we are ready to meet it with an open heart. Ancestral stories and legends accompany them on their journey through the dark season and remind them how precious every single life is.

Early winter - Tjakttjadálvvie - the season of wanderings

The sun retreats and leaves nature to silence and waiting. The reindeer are gathered into a large herd by the shepherds in the mountains and taken to their winter grazing grounds in the shelter of the wooded valleys. The earth rests under a shimmering blanket of snow, while the Northern Lights - the light of those who have gone before us - watch over nature. The stars shine in clear patterns in the firmament and show the Sami the way into the new year.

- Jon-Mikko Länta of the Swedish Saami community Jåhkågaska tjiellde