Guovvvás

Guovvvás is a term used in some Sámi languages, particularly Northern Sámi, to refer to a traditional Sámi dwelling. It is a type of turf hut or longhouse, often semi-subterranean, which was historically used by Sámi people for habitation. These structures were typically built into the ground for insulation and protection from the harsh Arctic climate.

The construction of a guovvvás involved using natural materials readily available in the environment. Earth, stones, and wood were commonly employed. The walls were often made of earth or sod, providing excellent thermal mass. A framework of wood would support a roof, which was then covered with more earth, turf, and sometimes animal skins. The design aimed to be both functional and sustainable, blending with the landscape.

Guovvvás were often elongated structures, sometimes housing multiple families or serving as combined living and storage spaces. They were particularly prevalent in areas where nomadic or semi-nomadic reindeer herding was practiced, offering shelter during different seasons. The internal layout varied but typically included a hearth for heating and cooking.

While the traditional guovvvás is less common as a primary dwelling in modern times, the knowledge of its construction and the cultural significance of these structures remain important. Elements of their design or the concept of earth-sheltered housing may influence contemporary Sámi architecture or be preserved as historical sites and cultural heritage. The term itself carries a strong association with Sámi history and ancestral ways of life.