Lapland (Finland)

Lapland is the largest and northernmost region of Finland. The municipalities in the region cooperate in a Regional Council. Lapland borders the region of North Ostrobothnia in the south. It also borders the Gulf of Bothnia, Norrbotten County in Sweden, Finnmark County and Troms County in Norway, and Murmansk Oblast and the Republic of Karelia in Russia.

Geography

Lapland's major cities include Rovaniemi, Tornio, and Kemi. The highest point in Lapland is the Halti mountain, located in the municipality of Enontekiö, which reaches a height of 1,324 meters. The area of Lapland region is 100,367 km², which consists of 92,667 km² of dry land, 6,316 km² fresh water and 1,383 km² of sea areas.

Climate

Lapland has a Subarctic climate, characterized by long, usually very cold winters, and short, cool to mild summers. The phenomenon of Midnight sun can be experienced in summer, from late May to early August. Conversely, Polar night occurs in winter, when the sun does not rise above the horizon at all.

Economy

The economy of Lapland is based on natural resources, tourism, and industries. The most important sectors are metal and mechanical engineering industries, environmental technology, and tourism. The region is known for its Reindeer husbandry, which is important to the Sami people, the indigenous people of Lapland.

Culture

Lapland is home to the Sami people, who are recognized as an indigenous people in Finland. The Sami culture is rich in traditions such as the Yoik, a unique form of singing, and the Duodji, traditional Sami handicrafts. The region is also known for its distinctive cuisine, which includes dishes such as reindeer, Cloudberry, and Leipäjuusto.

See also

• Sami people
• Rovaniemi
• Reindeer husbandry
• Midnight sun
• Polar night