Lovozero (Russian: Лово́зеро; Kildin Sami: Луяввьр; Skolt Sami: Luujäuʹrr; Northern Sami: Lujávri; Finnish: Luujärvi) is a rural locality (a selo) and the administrative center of Lovozersky District in Murmansk Oblast, Russia, located on both banks of the Virma River, which is not far from Lake Lovozero, and 164 kilometers (102 mi) southeast of Murmansk, the administrative center of the oblast. Population: 2,871 (2010 Russian census); 3,141 (2002 Census); 3,638 (1989 Soviet census). It is the second largest locality in the district after Revda.

History

In 1574, the settlement of Loyyavrsiyt (literally, "settlement of strong people by the lake") was founded at the site of modern Lovozero. Lovozero itself is first mentioned in chronicles in 1608.

Economy

The main business in Lovozero is the agricultural and reindeer husbandry cooperative Tundra. Fishing, hunting, and picking cloudberries are also important.

Transportation

The closest railway station is in Revda, located 20 kilometers (12 mi) to the west.

Military

A military helicopter base is located 2 kilometers (1.2 mi) to the southeast.

Culture

Several Sami festivals are held in Lovozero, which is why it is often called "the Sami capital of Russia." There is also a museum showcasing traditional Sami culture and way of life.

Climate

Lovozero has a subarctic climate due to its high latitude. In spite of this, the climate is a lot less severe than other Russian climates further east. Even so, it is colder than areas to the west that are a lot milder due to a greater Gulf Stream influence, with mean temperatures of below −13 °C (9 °F) in the two coldest months. In summer, temperatures can briefly spike to 30 °C (86 °F) or above due to southerly winds over the vast landmass, although the proximity to the chilly Arctic Ocean also cools down that season. Winters are drier than summers, but still snowy enough to build a reliable snow pack for several months. Due to the relatively mild July months, Lovozero is below the Arctic tree line.

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