Believe it or not, in Iceland more than 50% of the population believe in elves! In fact, we specifically refer to elves as the “hidden people” which is huldufólk in Icelandic.  Hundreds of stories throughout the centuries have been carefully preserved and documented. Intrigued to learn more?

Origins of Elves & the Hidden People

So where do the hidden people and elves begin in Iceland? Firstly, we know the stories go back centuries and across generations.  Secondly, some say the actual origin story comes from Adam and Eve.  Apparently when they were in the garden, they were told God would be coming to meet them and Eve noticed the children were dirty and couldn’t clean them off in time so she hid them from God.  However, God knew and made those children special by deeming them the hidden people who would live parallel lives to humans. But then you might wonder, how the stories get started? To illustrate, in many cases stories served as warnings to not do things. Likely a way to explain certain things, places, and reasons things needed to be the way they were.

Elves versus Hidden People

Wondering if there is a difference between elves and the Hidden People? The short answer is no, they are the same when it comes to Icelandic folklore.  Many say they are human-looking “soulless” beings that live in countryside rocks and caves. And they’re only seen if they wish to be. Some say they can be helpful when you’re in need, and others say they’re evil. Regardless, everyone who believes knows it’s important to keep peace between worlds or else.

Disturbing the Peace?

Curious to know what could disturb the peace between the parallel worlds? To illustrate, we’ve heard that simply climbing on an elf rock can do it. Others say not heeding their warnings can do it too. Meanwhile, do you know how serious Icelanders take these kind of matters? Keeping this peace is important and one of the many reasons roads in Iceland are built the way they are. For example, see THIS news article as proof!

Where can you Find, Read, or Listen to Stories?

One of our favorite elf stories comes from the town of Vik, where our Katla Ice Cave adventures begin from… Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to hear it on one of our tours!

Further, another favorite hidden people stories come from a farm between Dyrholaey and Reynisfjara in South Iceland. For instance, there’s an old turf house (the original homestead on the property) that now is home to several generations. But when they built the second home, the turf house started to fall apart.

It’s said, the grandmother at the time started to feel like she wasn’t alone in the new house (even though she was). Then in a dream one night, an elf came to her and said, “In order to keep the peace between men and elves, the turf house must be kept up. And if not, we will take over the new houses you continue to build.” Therefore, each year, the turf house continues to be maintained to its original beauty.

Wanting more?  You can read more about Icelandic folklore by checkout some of our favorite books in our Amazon Storefront, HERE!  Also, our friends at Eerie Iceland also have a super fun podcast if you want to listen as you prepare for your trip to Iceland too!