Astuvansalmi rock paintings

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Rockpaintings

The national shrine, Astuvansalmi, is one of the biggest rock painting sites in the Nordic countries. The paintings are on steep bedrock appdoximately 10 metres above the current water level. The paintings are between 4500 and 6000 years old, and the age have been estimated by examining the history of the water level.

Mystic figures, elks, human figures and handprints are displayed on the rock. This impressive site in Lake Yövesi is watched over by a "rock god", a rock that resembles a human head.

Rock paintings can be reached by car or by boat (no scheduled traffic to Astuvansalmi). By car the site may be reached by turning from Ristiina to "Suurlahdentie", road 4323. Drive 19 kilometres and there will be a small parking place and a sign of the paintings. NOTE: There is a 3 kilometer walk from the parking place to the rock paintings. Depending on weather, at least comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Distance from Mikkeli: 40km
Distance from Ristiina: 19km

At summer 2013 an Amatsoni-cruise to Astuvansalmi rockpaintings from Mikkeli harbour is arranged every tuesday (2.7.-20.8.).
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