Long before science explained them, the northern lights inspired myths across the north, including in Iceland. In Icelandic tradition, the lights were linked with Norse myth, childbirth beliefs, and stories about hidden beings and spirits.
The northern lights before science
Before scientific explanations, people across the north gave the lights meaning through stories. In Iceland, they were part of that older tradition of myth and belief.
The Valkyries in Norse myth
In Norse mythology, some linked the lights to the Valkyries. Their armour and spears were said to shine in the sky.
An Icelandic belief about childbirth
One Icelandic belief held that the lights eased the pain of childbirth. The same tradition also said that a pregnant woman should not look directly at them or her child would be born cross-eyed.
Elves, hidden people and spirits
Another Icelandic tradition tied the lights to elves and the hidden people dancing in the night sky. In some tellings, the lights were the spirits of the dead.
Seeing the northern lights in Iceland today
Today, the lights are understood differently, but the older folklore is still part of how many people talk about them. If you want to compare options for going out to see them, see northern lights tours.
Watch the conditions
Use the Aurora Forecast alongside this guide to Northern Lights Folklore: Iceland Myths when deciding whether the night looks promising.
