How to see the most accessible cave paintings in Russia? My photo report on the trip to the White Sea petroglyphs in Karelia, photo, map and advice on how to get there.
I love finding and viewing petroglyphs. This is not only a stunning historical artifact, but also an opportunity to look into the head of an ancient man. Primitive thinking is a very interesting thing.
If you want to admire thousands of petroglyphs, but are not ready to swim somewhere far or to wade off-road, come to Karelia, to Belomorsk. Just turned off the road, walked through the forest - and here are more than 2,000 unique images carved into the stones. By the way, take a note: the figures are best seen at sunset, when, due to shadows and side light, the drawings have volume and contrast.
These drawings are unique and significant for the whole world. They are about 4-7 thousand years old, they are in excellent condition and are easily accessible for visiting. The drawings depict a complete picture of the life of a primitive man: rituals, hunting, fishing, battles. And it was here that a man on skis was depicted for the first time in Europe. All drawings are of different sizes: from tiny to huge three meters.
There are three main clusters of petroglyphs near Belomorsk: Besovy sledki, Zalavruga and Erpin Pudas. The demonic tracks are still closed for tourists and it is not known when they will be opened. The easiest way is to see Zalavruga.
Watch the video below... It will allow you to learn more about the drawings of Zalavruga and especially about the Demon's tracks, which are closed to the public.
Location coordinates: 64.49822, 34.674822.
How to get to the White Sea petroglyphs (Zalavrugi)... Check out my map below. On the way to Belomorsk, you will need to turn left (there are signs) and drive about a kilometer to the parking lot in front of the bridge. Then leave the car and walk. It is easy to walk along the petroglyphs - a road leads to them along a pleasant alley. You only need to walk 1.3 km, you won't get lost, and mosquitoes will keep you company on this walk.
