Saemien Sijte

About the museum

Saemien Sijte was founded as a cultural association on 29 February 1964, with the aim of a Sámi cultural house with objects, Sámi buildings and handicrafts showing South Sámi life and history. The first building was completed in 1979 and officially opened on 3 October 1980. Expansion plans came in 1986, but a lack of funding meant that barracks and huts were used as temporary solutions.

In 2006 the activities were divided between a foundation, which runs the museum and owns the building, and a cultural association, which owns library books and exhibition objects from the period before the foundation. The government allocated funds for a new museum building at Horjemstangen by Lake Snåsavatnet, designed by Fur arkitekter. The new single-storey building was opened on 17 June 2022, and the main exhibition “Gïejide goerebe – Vi følger sporene” opened in October the same year.

Saemien Sijte is the only South Sámi museum and cultural centre and has national responsibility for documenting, preserving, researching and communicating South Sámi culture, from Saltfjellet in the north to Engerdal in the south.

Highlights

• The main exhibition “Gïejide goerebe – Vi følger sporene”
• Artwork by Tomas Colbengtson
• Interactive dance exhibition for the whole family
• Restaurant with South Sámi food and local ingredients
• Storytelling by the fire in a gamme (Sámi turf hut)

Permanent exhibition

• Gïejide goerebe – Vi følger sporene – The main exhibition on South Sámi culture and history, opened in October 2022.

Founded

1964

Operated by

Stiftelsen Saemien Sijte

Admission & discounts

Prices for groups, families and guided tours are available on enquiry.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The building is on one level with step-free access and guide lines from the entrance door to reception. There is guest parking, a dedicated HC parking space (disabled parking) and a turning area for buses. A gravel path about 60 metres from the main entrance may be difficult for some wheelchairs; ring reception for help. The paths in the outdoor area are gravel. Adapted toilets and gender-neutral changing facilities are available. Dogs are not allowed inside, but assistance dogs are welcome. Please get in touch in advance for special arrangements.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Hands-on stations
• Baby changing facilities

The exhibition “Vuartesjh aahka! Daanhtsobe – Se bestemor! Vi danser sammen” (Look, Grandma! We Dance Together) is interactive and suitable for the whole family. Gender-neutral changing facilities are available.

Getting there & parking

The museum is at Horjemstangen in Snåsa.

Amenities & dining

• Café
• Restaurant
• Museum shop

Café with meals based on ingredients from the South Sámi area and local suppliers, with dinner also on Thursdays. Museum shop with Sámi literature, handicrafts, design and gifts. Groups that wish to be served should order in advance.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit