Description of the attraction
The Alta open-air museum in Finnmark county, founded in 1991, is a unique monument of ancient history that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Here are rock paintings - petroglyphs of the period 4200 - 500 years. BC belonging to the Komsa culture, who are the ancestors of the Sami. Carved images of various animals and birds, hunting and fishing scenes, scenes from everyday life, mysterious geometric symbols for a better view are specially painted with red ocher on all walking paths with a total length of about three kilometers.
These drawings reflected the chronicle of the most important historical events of the ancient tribe, and could also be the simplest art form of that time. The most common petroglyphs are images of a deer, salmon and a boat. There is every reason to believe that the symbol of worship among the ancestors of the Sami was a bear.
The Archaeological Museum in Alta is open all year round, but is open to visitors from May to early October, until the drawings are covered with snow.
In July, individual excursions are held daily at 12.00, on other days a detailed guide is attached, included in the ticket price. Groups of 10 or more must book an accompanying guide in advance. There is a cafe with soft drinks and sweets, as well as a gift shop.
