Authors: Maria Golubova, Valentina Novgorodova, Diana Anisimova
Institute: Peoples' Friendship University of Russia
Course: 4
According to legend, the ancient Sami people constructed the Great Wall using sacred mountains where birds once nested. As the mountains crumbled, the kittiwakes lost their homes. In their desperation, the birds pecked at the stone until they discovered the hollows left by the builders. Thus, the Wall transformed into a new kind of cliff. Today, humans dwell above, while the birds reside below.
The wall represents a linear megastructure that stretches from the coast of Norway across Eurasia, introducing a novel artificial element into the landscape. Rather than functioning as a barrier, it serves as an infrastructural corridor that connects ecosystems and facilitates bird migration routes.
The upper level of the structure is designed as a platform accommodating light human settlements and public pathways. Internally, the wall mimics an artificial cliff, providing nesting habitats for seabirds — in particular, the black‑legged kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla). Purpose‑built niches and ledges replicate natural cliff formations, offering secure nesting spaces.
Additionally, the structure actively captures sea fog and atmospheric moisture, thereby generating a distinct local microclimate.
