Did you know in Iceland more than 50% of the population believe in elves? In fact, we specifically refer to elves as the “hidden people” (Huldufólk in Icelandic).
Intrigued to learn more?
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.
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. Which is actually why many of the roads in Iceland are built the way they are. See
THIS news article as proof!
One of our favorite elf stories comes from the town of Vik, where our
Katla Ice Cave adventures begin from…
One of our favorite elf stories comes from a farm between Dyrholaey and Reynisfjara in South Iceland. 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.
Curious for more? You can read more about Icelandic folklore by checkout some of our favorite books in our Amazon Storefront,
HERE!
