Sami Culture ID

The Sami people, also referred to as Lapps or Laplanders, are the indigenous people of the northern parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and the Kola Peninsula of Russia. Their culture is rich and has been shaped primarily by their harsh Arctic environment.

Sami culture is centred on a traditional lifestyle that encompasses reindeer herding, hunting, fishing and gathering. The reindeer is a vital component of Sami culture, providing food, fur and transportation. This lifestyle has allowed the Sami to survive in the challenging northern landscapes for centuries.

Language is another crucial aspect of Sami culture with several different dialects in use within the various sub-groups of the population. Their languages are part of the Uralic linguistic group, which also includes Finnish and Hungarian.

The Sami are known for their unique music, called Yoik, which is one of the oldest music traditions in Europe. It has a spiritual significance and it's often personal, dedicating yoiks to people, animals or landscapes.

Despite modern influences, the Sami people have managed to maintain their cultural identity and lifestyle. They've faced and still face challenges such as cultural assimilation and climate change that threaten their traditional way of life. However, they continue to pass on their extraordinary cultural heritage to their younger generations, while also seeking to raise awareness of their culture globally.