Sami Culture
The Sámi are an indigenous people living in Finland, Sweden, Norway and Russia. Known widely in the past as Lapps, the term "Lapp" is now considered derogatory by many Sámi. The Sámi have their own language, of which there are several variations, and their own culture, way of life and identity. Common history, traditions, livelihoods and customs unite the Sámi living in different countries. In total, they number 75,000 to 100,000.
The Kåta (pronounced korta) is the traditional home of the Sámi. A simple cone-shaped frame of wooden poles was covered with hides, with an opening at the top to let out the smoke.
The principle was simple: the fire created warmth and the animal hides kept it in. The fire also provided light and a homely atmosphere. Cooking and smoking food, drying clothing and other household chores could be easily carried out.
Because the Kåta weighed little in relation to its size, it was the perfect solution for a nomadic lifestyle; the wooden frame was easy to make so was left behind when the nomadic people moved on.
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