The aim of this study was to examine cultural heritage values and restoration approaches related to traditional Sámi buildings in Norrbotten, Sweden. The methods used were interviews and studies of reports from restoration processes and of literature. The study showed that different values are important to consider during restorations. Values connected to a building's ability to convey historical information were emphasized, for example aspects such as form, construction and building techniques, developments, life patterns and the historic use of a place. Values related to the experience of a building and its surroundings were also highlighted, for example values connected to identity, tradition and symbolic value. The restoration approaches visible in the study regarded questions about the use and significance of materials, type of measures, craftmanship and attitude towards modern additions. The importance of documentation and the collecting of knowledge during restorations were emphasized, as well as the need for understanding why restorations are carried out.

Stenbyggnadstraditionen kom sent till Norrland. När dessa byggnadstekniker slutligen spreds sig norrut så var det kyrkan som förde med sig kunskapen och uppförde kyrkor i sten längs kusten. Murbruksprover har insamlats från fem olika medeltida kyrkor längs norrlandskusten för att bättre förstå och jämföra det använda byggnadsmaterialet. Proverna har analyserats som tunnslip för att kunna tolka innehåll och sammansättning. Kyrkornas likheter jämförs och diskuteras. Dessutom genomförs en genomgång av Norrlands byggnadstradition från förhistorisk tid för att bättre förstå varför det länge byggdes annorlunda här jämfört med resten av landet och hur koloniseringen av landet tedde sig. / The stone building tradition was slow to arrive in Norrland. And when there building techniques finally spread north over it was the church who brought the knowledge of the material and erected churches along the coastline. Mortar samples have been collected from five different medieval churches along the coastline of Norrland. The samples have then been analyzed as barrel slips to uncover components of the mortar. The churches similarities have been compared and discussed. In addition, there is an in-depth part of Norrland’s building traditions from prehistoric time to better understand why the stone building tradition was so late and why people built different up here. This part also discusses the colonization of the land and the population growth.