The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, have been a source of wonder and fascination for centuries. But did you know that the Viking settlers of Iceland had their own mythology and history surrounding this natural phenomenon? In this blog post, we'll explore the connection between the Viking settlers of Iceland and the Northern Lights.
The Viking Settlers of Iceland:
The Viking settlers of Iceland arrived on the island in the late 9th century, and they brought with them their own mythology and beliefs. One of the most important figures in Viking mythology was Odin, the god of wisdom, war, and death. According to legend, Odin rode his eight-legged horse, Sleipnir, across the sky, creating the Northern Lights as he went.
The Northern Lights in Viking Mythology:
The Vikings believed that the Northern Lights were a bridge between the living and the dead. They believed that the lights were the spirits of their ancestors, dancing across the sky. The Vikings also believed that the Northern Lights were a sign of good luck and prosperity, and that they could be used to predict the weather and the success of their crops.
The Northern Lights in Icelandic History:
The Northern Lights have played an important role in Icelandic history as well. In the 17th century, a volcanic eruption caused a famine in Iceland, and the Northern Lights were seen as a sign of hope and renewal. The lights were also used as a navigational aid by Icelandic fishermen, who would follow the lights to find their way home.
The Northern Lights Today:
Today, the Northern Lights are still a source of fascination and wonder for people all over the world. Iceland is one of the best places to see the lights, thanks to its location in the Arctic Circle. Visitors to Iceland can take guided tours to see the Northern Lights, and many hotels offer special packages that include Northern Lights viewing.
In conclusion, the Viking settlers of Iceland had their own mythology and beliefs surrounding the Northern Lights. They saw the lights as a bridge between the living and the dead, a sign of good luck and prosperity, and a navigational aid. Today, the Northern Lights are still a source of wonder and fascination, and Iceland remains one of the best places in the world to see them.