Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SAMI CULTURE & TRADITIONS
For centuries Sami life was based on hunting and fishing, then sometime during the 16th
century reindeer were domesticated and the hunting economy transformed into a no-
madic herding economy. While reindeer still figure prominently in Sami life, only about
15% of Sami people are still directly involved in reindeer herding. These days, a mere
handful of traditionalists continue to lead a truly nomadic lifestyle. The majority these
days fish or are engaged in tourist-related activities.
A major identifying element of Sami culture is thejoik(oryoik), a rhythmic poem com-
posed for a specific person to describe their innate nature and considered to be owned by
the person it describes. Other traditional elements include the use of folk medicine,
artistic pursuits such as woodcarving and silversmithing, and striving for ecological har-
mony.
The Sami national dress is the only genuine folk dress that's still in casual use in Nor-
way, and you might see it on the streets of Kautokeino and Karasjok. Each district has its
own distinct features, but all include a highly decorated and embroidered combination of
red-and-blue felt shirts or frocks, trousers or skirts, and boots and hats. On special occa-
sions, the women's dress is topped off with a crown of pearls and a garland of silk hair rib-
bons.
To learn more, look out forThe Sami Peoplepublished by Davvi Girji (1990) orThe
Sami: Indigenous People of the Arcticby Odd Mathis Hælta, both available in English
translations.The Magic of Sami Yoikby Dejoda is one of several CDs devoted to this spe-
cial genre, while the tracks onEight Seasonsby Mari Boine, a Karasjok singer, offer a
greater variety of Sami music.
Karasjok
Pop 2875
Kautokeino may have more Sami residents, but Karasjok (Kárásjohka in Sami) is Sami
Norway's indisputable capital. It's home to the Sami Parliament and library, NRK Sami
Radio, a wonderful Sami museum and an impressive Sami theme park. This is also one of
the best places in Norway to go dog-sledding.
It's a lovely forested drive between Karasjok and Kautokeino, following, for the most
spectacular stretch, the River Jiešjokka.
Search WWH ::




Custom Search