Over a thousand rock carvings 4,000–6,000 years old on three islands of Lake Kanozero — the largest Neolithic gallery of the Kola North, discovered only in 1997.
Kanozero Petroglyphs
On 5 July 1997, during an expedition of the Revda local history museum, Yuri Ivanov discovered rock carvings on Kamenny (Skalisty) island in Lake Kanozero — a sensation that overturned ideas about the Kola Peninsula's ancient past. As of 2014 over a thousand images have been opened, dated between the 4th and 2nd millennia BC. The petroglyphs are carved on three islands — Bolshoy Podmunsky (Gorely), Maly Podmunsky (Yelovy) and Skalisty (Kamenny) — and on the coastal Odinokaya cliff. The subjects are hunting and fishing scenes, human figures, moose, whales and sea animals; the meaning of many compositions remains undeciphered. The site is a federal cultural heritage object. Tourist routes once ran through the islands, bringing the carvings to the brink of destruction from 'souvenir' inscriptions; in December 2014 a protective dome was built over the main panel. In the 2000s the 'Kanozero Petroglyphs' rock-art museum opened in the region.
How to get there
From Revda or Umba to Lake Kanozero (80–100 km); then by boat to the islands (3–5 km on the water); guided tours run through the Revda museum.
Best season
June to September (navigation to the islands); winter approaches over ice are risky.
Travel tips & stories
The islands are a federal monument: look only — never touch or write.
A boat is needed: row or motor across from the forest landing.
Combine with an Umba route — the rivers are linked by a lake system.
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Local guides
- TR
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