The Kummakivi Balancing Rock is one strange rock

[boingboing]

Originally published at: The Kummakivi Balancing Rock is one strange rock - Boing Boing

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[da_Bird]

There’s a similar “Balance Rock” that we run by pretty regularly out in western MA. Almost certain the big rock was deposited when the glaciers last receded. Pretty sure there’s another one in the area as well.

[ashe]

It looks like a natural gomboc.

Gömböc—The Shape That Shouldn't Exist

[jra]

They are called "pierres erratiques"in French, which I find charming.

I’m not sure what my friend Pierre thinks of that name though. He’s a rock solid chap.

[evadrepus]

I’m always shocked these haven’t been toppled by someone during their instagram picture.

[cepheus42]

There are way more of these than folks know. Here’s one in Maine (not my image):

[leicester]

They are called “glacial erratics” in English, as well, which has its own evocative tone.

[Otherbrother]

@evadrepus

I’m always shocked these haven’t been toppled by someone during their instagram picture.

Or vandals. Or idiots who claim to be trying to keep people safe.

https://www.cnn.com/2014/01/31/us/utah-boulder-boy-scouts/index.html

[LurksNoMore]

It weighs about five hundred (metric) tons. Balanced or not, people aren’t moving it.

[toobigtofail]

Balancing rocks also in Zimbabwe.

https://thisisafrica.me/arts-and-culture/matobo-matopos-hills-zimbabwe/

[anon33176345]

Is that Dogmatix under it? Where’s Obelix?

There appears to be a notice just above the balance point, but I cannot read it.

@LurksNoMore

people aren’t moving it

“Give me a lever and a place to stand and I will move the earth”

[awfulhorrid]

@anon33176345

There appears to be a notice just above the balance point, but I cannot read it.

Do Not Taunt Happy Fun Rock?

(Also an extra just for little Dogmatix.)

[Taram-Tadam]

The sign says “Rauhoitettu luonnonsuojelulain nojalla” = “Protected by nature protection law.”

[anon33176345]

Thank you and welcome.