Rock carvings at Tennes, Prehistoric rock art site in Balsfjord Municipality, Norway
Rock carvings at Tennes are a collection of roughly 60 figures distributed across three separate fields, depicting animals and human forms in various activities. The motifs include sea and land creatures such as seals and moose, as well as people in boats and other scenes.
These carvings were made between 4600 and 2600 BC and represent the earliest known hunting culture art in Scandinavia. They were first recorded in the late 1700s and have since become important evidence of early settlement in the region.
The carvings at Tennes depict scenes of hunting and fishing life, with boats, sea creatures, and land animals showing how early residents interacted with their environment. These images offer insight into the daily concerns and values of the ancient inhabitants.
The site is accessible via a marked path starting near Balsfjord Church. Wear sturdy shoes and check the weather, as the location is exposed and conditions can change quickly.
Some of the figures were carved with varying depths, showing that early artists used different techniques to create visual effects. This variation suggests a sophisticated understanding of artistic expression.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
