Solsem cave, Rock art cave site in Leka, Norway.
Solsem is a cave with red wall paintings located deep in the mountains of Leka that extends approximately 40 meters into the rock. The paintings depict human figures and geometric patterns visible directly on the stone surface.
The paintings were created between 1700 and 200 BCE and were discovered in 1912 by three local men. This finding was groundbreaking because these were the first known cave art works in Northern Europe at that time.
The cave served as a place for ritual activities, as evidenced by bone fragments, musical instruments, and ornaments found during excavations. Visitors can sense the spiritual significance of the site through these scattered remains.
Access to the cave is only possible with guided tours during the summer season and requires a reasonable level of fitness due to steep paths. The route includes steps and rope handrails, so sturdy footwear and caution are essential.
One of the most remarkable features at this site is an oversized painted cross figure that spans several meters across the wall. This symbol is among the largest of its kind in Norwegian cave art.
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