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Cultural Connections Hub
The Sámi People
Indigenous peoples of northern Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia
The Sámi are the Indigenous people of northern Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia's Kola Peninsula. Their history stretches back thousands of years, and their traditions—including reindeer herding, joik singing, and duodji handicrafts—remain an important part of Sámi identity today.
Daily Life
Architecture
Traditionally, many Sámi lived in portable tents called lavvu, which could be quickly assembled and taken down while following migrating reindeer. Some communities also built more permanent wooden homes. Today, most Sámi live in modern houses while the lavvu remains an important cultural symbol and is still used during festivals and outdoor activities.
Tools
Traditional Sámi tools were carefully designed for life in Arctic environments. Knives, sleds, fishing equipment, and reindeer-herding tools were commonly made from wood, bone, antler, leather, and metal, making use of locally available materials.
Food and Agriculture
Because of the cold climate, farming was limited in many areas. Instead, the Sámi traditionally relied on reindeer herding, fishing, hunting, and gathering wild berries and plants. Reindeer continue to play an important cultural and economic role, providing meat, hides, and antlers.
Clothing
Traditional Sámi clothing, called the gákti, is brightly coloured and often decorated with woven bands, embroidery, and silver jewellery. Different designs can represent a person's family, region, or community. Warm materials such as wool and reindeer hide help protect against Arctic temperatures.
Transportation
Historically, reindeer-drawn sleds and skis were the main forms of transportation during winter. Boats were used in summer to travel across lakes and rivers. Today, snowmobiles and modern vehicles are commonly used alongside traditional methods in some areas.
How the Environment Shapes Daily Life
The Arctic environment has greatly influenced Sámi culture. Long winters, short growing seasons, and vast forests and tundra encouraged a lifestyle based on mobility, cooperation, and sustainable use of natural resources. Knowledge of weather, animal behaviour, and seasonal changes has been passed down through generations and remains an important part of Sámi identity.