Kjølelast

Kjølelast is a type of snow bag or insulated container used in Norway and other Nordic countries to preserve ice or cold during the summer.

The term "kjølelast" is derived from the Norwegian words "kjøle", meaning "cooling" or "preserving", and "last", meaning "box" or "container". Kjølelasts were traditionally used to keep ice frozen for a longer period, allowing people to enjoy ice cream, iced drinks, and other chilled beverages outside during the summer.

A typical kjølelast consists of a large, insulated container made from wood, wicker, or other materials. The container is lined with straw or other insulating materials to prevent heat from entering and melting the ice. The inside of the container is usually kept cool by placing it in a shadowed area and covering it with a lid or cloth to retain the cold.

Kjølelasts were an essential part of Norwegian summer culture, and their use was particularly common in coastal towns and villages where ice was readily available. The practice of using kjølelasts to keep ice cold was passed down from generation to generation and remained an integral part of Norwegian folklore until the mid-20th century, when refrigeration became a standard feature in homes.

Today, traditional kjølelasts have largely been replaced by modern refrigeration and air conditioning. However, the cultural significance and nostalgic value of kjølelasts remain, and they continue to be used as decorative or functional elements in some Norwegian homes and public spaces.