Evil elves and tragic ‘accidents’

The most well-known Icelandic legends are about elves known as huldufólk (‘the hidden people’). “The settlers of Iceland all seemed to believe that the land itself was under the ‘ownership’ of local spirits,” says Gunnell. While there are many stories of friendly interactions with these elves, they could be dangerous if crossed, casting curses on the locals or causing tragic accidents.

This, according to Gunnell, is why roads are often built a safe distance from large rocks – so as not to disturb the elves. It’s said that if you wait at a crossroads late on Midsummer’s Eve, the elves will come to greet you bearing gifts and money. According to superstition, if you accept their offerings, you’ll be plagued with bad luck – but if you wait until they leave in the morning, the gifts and money will be yours without consequence.