Seter

Seter, also spelled sæter or saeter, is a traditional mountain farm or seasonal pasture site used for summer grazing in Norway and parts of Sweden. The term denotes a place where herders move with their livestock, typically including cattle, sheep, or goats, to higher elevations to graze during the summer months. Seter sites usually consist of a cluster of simple buildings, including a main dwelling and several outbuildings, built from local timber and stone; roofs may be wooden or turf, depending on local materials. The practice is associated with the transhumant rural economy and was historically central to livestock production in mountainous regions.

Etymology and regional usage: The word derives from Old Norse sætr, related to meanings of dwelling or shelter. Variants appear as sæter or saeter in Norwegian usage and as säter in some Swedish contexts. In Sweden, the comparable concept is often described by other terms such as fäbod, but seter is encountered in dialects and regional place names.

Geography and culture: Seter sites are found in upland districts of Norway and Sweden, where summer grazing provided a source of milk and meat and supported seasonal livelihoods. They played a key role in rural life, with seasonal moves known as seterdrift, integrating with dairy production and farm organization.

Current status: In modern times, many seter farms have ceased commercial operation, but numerous preserved seters survive as cultural heritage sites or tourist attractions. Some continue to function on a limited basis, preserving traditional practices and regional architecture.

Other uses: Seter is also used as a place name and surname in Norway and surrounding regions, reflecting historical ties to mountain farming.