Frozen Crystal of the North: A Guide to the Arctic

10 interesting facts about the Arctic:

The Arctic is not only ice, but also amazing ecosystems.
Unique animals live here: polar bears, walruses, arctic foxes.
The Arctic is a region with incredible landscapes.
The Arctic hides huge reserves of resources under its ice shell.
The North Pole is the geographical center of the Arctic.
The Arctic is the cradle of ancient cultures.
Arctic glaciers play an important role in the climate of the planet.
The Arctic is a region that is changing rapidly due to global warming.
The Arctic is not only cold, but also beautiful.
There are many little-explored areas in the Arctic.

The regions included in the Arctic:

The Arctic includes parts of Russia, Canada, the USA (Alaska), Denmark (Greenland), Norway, Iceland and Finland. Each of these areas makes its own unique contribution to the rich culture of the Arctic.

The Arctic zone of Russia includes the territories of the following subjects of the Russian Federation:

Republics: Sakha (Yakutia), Komi, Karelia, Nenets Autonomous Okrug.
Edge: Krasnoyarsk Territory.
Areas: Arkhangelsk Region (including Nenets Autonomous Okrug), Murmansk Region, Chukotka Autonomous Okrug.

It is important to note that the border of the Arctic zone does not always coincide with the administrative borders of the subjects of the federation. Part of the territory of these subjects may be located outside the Arctic zone, and some areas of these subjects are completely included in the Arctic zone. The determination of belonging to the Arctic zone is based on geographical criteria.

<strong>General information:

The Arctic is a polar region bordered by the Arctic Ocean. An area with a harsh climate and unique nature.

Climate:

Summer: The days are short, the temperature ranges from 0 to +10°C, but can vary significantly depending on the region.
Winter: Very cold, long polar nights, temperatures of -30°C and below, in some areas it can drop to -50°C.

Major cities:

Murmansk (Russia), Barentsburg (Norway), Inuvik (Canada), Long Yir (Norway).

Transport links:

Mainly by air and sea. In winter, depending on the ice conditions, sea traffic can be severely limited. Snowmobiles and reindeer sleds are often used inside the regions.

How to get there:

By plane is the most common way. In summer, by water, but it depends on the ice situation and the availability of sea routes.

Nature:

The Arctic is a region of permafrost, tundra, Arctic deserts, glaciers and ice fields. The unique flora and fauna are adapted to harsh conditions.

Tourism:

Be sure to explore the Arctic reserves and national parks. The opportunity to see the northern Lights (Aurora borealis) is one of the main tourist attractions.

Culture:</strong>

The culture of the Arctic is a mosaic of the traditions of indigenous peoples such as the Nenets, Sami, Inuit, Yupik and others. Their culture is closely connected with nature, hunting, fishing and reindeer husbandry. Traditional knowledge about nature, mythology and unique art are passed down from generation to generation. In the Russian Arctic, the influence of the culture of the indigenous peoples of the North, such as the Nenets, Yakuts, Evenks and Chukchi, is especially noticeable.

Natural attractions:

Glaciers, Arctic landscapes, northern lights, unique species of animals and plants.

Historical places:

The remains of ancient settlements, the wintering grounds of polar explorers.

For outdoor enthusiasts:

Fishing, skiing, snowmobile expeditions, kayaking (in summer).

Holidays:

Related to history and culture: Many holidays of the indigenous peoples of the North of Russia are timed to significant events in their history and calendar cycles related to hunting and agriculture. The exact dates vary and are often tied to lunar cycles. For example, holidays dedicated to the beginning and end of winter, as well as celebrations related to the transition of deer to summer pastures.
Related to nature and resources: Holidays dedicated to successful hunting and a rich fishing season are often informal and communal in nature.
Other holidays: They are common to Russia, but they are often noted taking into account the peculiarities of the Arctic region.

ng>Folk crafts:

Manufacture of fur and leather clothing (deerskin clothing, fur coats), knitting, embroidery, bone and wood carving, manufacture of national musical instruments (for example, a harp).

Traditional cuisine:

Hunting dishes (venison, walrus meat, seals), fish, seafood, berries. Traditional food is very nutritious and adapted to harsh conditions.

Folk dishes:

Fish and meat soups, baked venison, stroganina, berry dishes (cloudberries, cranberries).

Seafood delicacies:

Cod, halibut, shrimp, crabs, seaweed.