Valhalla

Norse mythology · Vikings · afterlife · legends

Hall of Warriors. Valhalla is a grand hall ruled by the god Odin where soldiers who die fighting get to live forever. It's one of five different places where Norse souls could go after death.

Many Magical Doors. Valhalla has countless doors that will open at Ragnarök, the end of the world in Norse mythology. When that time comes, all the warrior spirits inside will march out to fight alongside Odin against giants called jötnar.

Warrior Paradise. Vikings believed dying in battle was the most glorious way to leave the world, so they dreamed of joining the heroes in Valhalla. This belief was so powerful it may have made Vikings braver and more fearless than other raiders of their time.

One of Five Realms. Valhalla wasn't the only afterlife in Norse mythology. Souls could also go to Fólkvangr ruled by goddess Freyja, Hel ruled by Loki's daughter, the realm of goddess Rán, or a Burial Mound where spirits could rest.

Lasts Until the End. The warriors in Valhalla don't stay forever in peace, they stay until Ragnarök arrives. Then they have one final, ultimate battle to fight.