Värikallio rock paintings

Värikallio is a rock wall rising from Lake Somerjärvi, where 61 figures are painted in reddish-brown pigments showing humans, animals, and ritual scenes. The site displays work created by hand across the stone surface over thousands of years ago.

The paintings were created about 3,500 to 4,500 years ago by members of the Comb Ceramic Culture. This location marked a junction of ancient water routes used for travel and trade.

The figures depict humans wearing antlers and triangular heads, reflecting shamanic practices and hunting rituals that held meaning for ancient inhabitants. These images reveal how early communities understood their relationship with nature and the spiritual world.

The rock paintings can be visited year-round using a summer walking trail or winter skiing path to reach the site. An observation platform provides good viewing angles without disturbing the artwork.

A natural layer of silicon dioxide has formed over the rock surfaces, protecting the original iron oxide pigments from environmental damage. This mineral seal has allowed fine details to survive thousands of years of weathering.

Location: Suomussalmi

GPS coordinates: 65.51434,29.30247

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:05