Vuollerim - Six Thousand and Fifteen Years Ago

Abstract

The theoretical background that led to the discovery and excavation of the Late Mesolithic semi-subterranean dwelling at Vuollerim is presented. This is followed by an interpretation of the social function of the house. A comparison with contemporary dwellings is made and the cultural context of the Vuollerim site is explored. The paper ends with some observations and thoughts concerning the impact that the archaeological discovery in Vuollerim had on its present day inhabitants and how it changed their view of themselves, their history and their future.