The Finnish government forcibly purchased the area containing the Astuvansalmi rock paintings in South Savo in September.
Improved Access to Ancient Rock Paintings
Visits to the prehistoric Astuvansalmi rock paintings will develop into easier in the summer of 2027. The government’s acquisition of the land followed a failure to reach an agreement with the private landowner regarding the site’s maintenance. Decisions regarding the area will now be made by Metsähallitus.
Tiina Hakkarainen, Head of Connections at Natural Services, stated that the viewing platform will be repaired this spring to ensure safe visits to the paintings. A recent viewing platform will be built next year, designed to allow viewing even as preventing visitors from touching the paintings, thus protecting them. The current platform is too close to the rock face, allowing potential contact with the artwork.
The images at Astuvansalmi were painted on the rock approximately 5,700 years ago, when the water level of Lake Saimaa was ten meters higher than it is today.
Path Improvements Underway
The city of Mikkeli is working to improve the path leading to the rock paintings. Land Employ Director Topi Äikäs is currently developing a route plan for the Permit and Supervision Agency. The path is scheduled to be marked and renovated by the summer of 2027. It has been described as difficult to navigate in places, with reports of the path ending at a body of water. Plans include building a tiny bridge and potentially boardwalks, as well as a handrail on a steep hill for children and the elderly.
There are also plans to expand the existing parking area, according to traffic system specialist Henri Heikura. The road leading to the site was also recently improved using funds allocated by Parliament.
Future Development Dependent on Funding
Metsähallitus has been allocated €150,000 from the Eastern Finland program for the design and construction of the viewing platform. The city of Mikkeli hopes to add a new pier to accommodate both leisure boats and tour operators’ vessels, as well as access for kayaks and canoes. However, Tiina Hakkarainen noted that a pier would cost at least one hundred thousand euros and funding is currently lacking.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the improvements to Astuvansalmi be completed?
The path is scheduled to be renovated by the summer of 2027, and a new viewing platform will be built by next year.
Why did the government have to purchase the land?
The government purchased the land in September due to the fact that it could not reach an agreement with the private landowner regarding the maintenance of the site.
Who is now responsible for managing the Astuvansalmi area?
Metsähallitus is now responsible for managing the Astuvansalmi area.
As efforts continue to improve access and preserve this key historical site, what role do you believe local communities should play in its ongoing development?
