The Sacred Seidas of North Europe: Mount Vottovaara
The Seida, also known as Sami Seida or Seita, is a sacred place for the North European people, particularly the Saami or Lapps. It can be a special spot in the mountains, tundra, taiga, or any other natural formation such as a stone, stump, lake. The Seida also encompasses artifacts like stone structures.
One such Seida can be found on Mount Vottovaara and is comprised of a large boulder resting on three smaller stones, which are placed on top of another large boulder.
Photo by depositphotos.com
These sacred stone structures can also be found in Russia‘s Karelia and Kola regions, as well as in Scandinavia.
Photo by depositphotos.com
Mount Vottovaara is located in Karelia, Russia.
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Mount Vottovaara National Park south entrance campsite beside the trailhead, Karelia, Russia
- Coordinates
- 63.0598217, 32.6109046
- Access
- A park-entry permit is required; apply 3–5 days before arrival and carry it in the park. Overnight camping is allowed only at designated sites; fires are prohibited and gas stoves are allowed. The official south-entrance campsite beside the trailhead is free, unreserved and limited to five tents.
- Admission
- A park-entry permit is required and a visitor fee applies; the park website does not state the current amount. Confirm the tariff with the park before travel.
- Location checked
- 2026-09-25
- Facts checked
- 2026-09-25
Map marks the area, not a visitor entrance.
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A wonderful collection of photos! Thank you for sharing.