The Icelandic Yule Lads in Dimmuborgir
Among the unique land forms in the Mývatn area is Dimmuborgir (Dark Towers), a large tumble of lava that has hardened into tall spires. The formations were created when lava flowed over a marshland. The water under became super-heated; the escaping steam created the odd tower and rolling lava formations that blanket the area.
Dimmuborgir is reported home to the Yule Lads - the mythical 13 Santa's of Iceland. Unlike the American Santa, these little imps are quite the trouble makers and pester folks the two weeks prior to Christmas. Dimmuborgir as their home is surely a recent tradition, meant to lure in tourists. A cave filled with their trinkets can be found along the trails.
This plaque tells a little of the story of the Lads. It reads:
The Icelandic Yule Lads in Dimmuborgir
WHO ARE THEY?
Here in Dimmuborgir the Icelandic Yule Lads live. They are the 13 sons of Gryla and Leppalúði, vicious trolls that live in a big cave in Ladentarborgir. The brothers have funny names that often refer to their preferences for food or interest. To name few there is Spoon Licker, Sausage Swiper, Skyr Gobbler, and the noisy fellow Door Slammer who loves to wake up people by slamming the doors very loudly.
In the summer the Yule Lads can rarely be seen, because they use this season to rest and are sleeping in their caves but as winter comes they wake up and start preparing for Christmas. The best time to meet them here in Dimmuborgir is during the month of December when they are busy preparing for Christmas. The best way to find them is to walk the path to Hallarflot and should loudly Jolasveinn!
For more information on the Yule Lads, see www.visitmyvatn.is