The Nine Worlds of Norse Mythology

In Norse mythology the universe is divided into nine worlds, all connected through Yggdrasil, the world tree. From Asgard, home of the gods, and Midgard, realm of humans, to the frozen Niflheim and the fiery Muspelheim.

Realm of the Gods

Åsgard

Home of the Æsir — seat of Odin, Valhalla, and the halls of the gods.

Realm of Men

Midgard

The world of humans, created from the body of Ymir and encircled by the Midgard Serpent.

Realm of Giants

Jotunheim

Realm of the giants — vast, cold, and home to the gods' greatest adversaries.

Realm of Ice

Niflheim

The oldest world — a frozen realm of mist and cold, source of the primordial rivers.

Realm of Fire

Muspelheim

Realm of fire and the fire giants — Surtr will set the world ablaze at Ragnarok.

Realm of the Gods

Vanaheim

Home of the Vanir — gods of fertility and nature, little described in the sources.

Realm of Elves

Alfheim

Realm of the Light Elves, gifted to Freyr — brighter than the sun, beautiful and serene.

Realm of Dwarves

Svartalfheim

Underground realm of the dwarves — forge of Mjölnir, Gungnir, and the gods' greatest treasures.

Realm of the Dead

Helheim

Realm of the dead — ruled by Hel, daughter of Loki, for those not slain in battle.