Lake Saimaa in southeastern Finland is a vast labyrinth of water, islands and forested shores. As the fourth-largest lake in the world, it’s a true paradise for nature lovers. You can spend days here boating, hiking, mountain biking, and simply enjoying the peace and quiet. But if you’re interested in history, the Lake Saimaa region is also the right place to be. Highlights include Olavinlinna Castle in Savonlinna, the fortress of Lappeenranta and the former train station Pulsan Asema (which also offers unique overnight stays).
Rock paintings of Astuvansalmi
In addition to these historic structures, nature itself holds fascinating sights, such as the prehistoric rock paintings of Astuvansalmi, among the most impressive in Finland. Painted on a rock face near the water are elk and several human figures, ranging in height from 20 to 50 cm. Three of the human figures are female, and one of them is holding a bow, which is considered particularly rare. Boats with crews and a distinct handprint are also part of the scene. The paintings were created using red ochre, likely mixed with fat and blood and possibly even eggs.
How old are the Astuvansalmi rock paintings?
Before the last Ice Age, the water level of Lake Saimaa was significantly higher, submerging many rock formations entirely. Around 4000 BCE, this changed: a new outflow route formed in the shape of the Vuoksi River, causing the lake’s water level to drop. As a result, parts of the rock faces emerged above the surface—exactly the spots where rock paintings have since been found. The Astuvansalmi paintings are located between 7.7 and 11.8 meters above the current water level, suggesting they were likely created between 4000 and 2200 BCE. Their remarkable preservation is thanks to a natural layer of minerals that formed on the rock surface over the centuries, creating a protective coating.
Other rock paintings in Finland
More than 120 sites with rock paintings have been discovered across Finland, most of which are believed to date from between 5000 and 3200 BCE. The paintings often depict people, elk, boats, animal tracks and handprints. They are typically found on steep rock faces right at the water’s edge and are often best viewed from a boat. Similar rock art has also been found in neighboring countries such as Sweden, Norway, and Russia. However, those are more often petroglyphs (images carved or etched into stone) whereas Finland is especially known for its painted rock art. Well-known sites include Alta in Norway, Nämforsen in Sweden and the shores of Lake Onega in Russia.
How to get to the Astuvansalmi rock paintings
There are several ways to reach the Astuvansalmi rock paintings. I personally joined a rib boat tour with RIB Saimaa from Mikkeli. Uhkua offers a more extensive experience, including dinner at a covered firepit. If you’re exploring this part of Finland by car or rental car, you can also enjoy a scenic hike to the site. There’s a parking area at the start of the trail (search for Astuvansalmen Kalliomaalaukset on Google Maps). More information about the hike can be found on this page.
