In Icelandic folklore, Grýla is a monstrous entity who lives in the wilderness of Iceland. The name Grýla is first attested in medieval sources. However, the earliest unambiguous references to …

Dec 1, 2019 · She’s been known about since roughly the 13th century, when tales of her exploits spread via word of mouth. The name Grýla translates as “Growler”, making her even scarier.

Nov 11, 2025 · In Icelandic folklore, grýla is a giantess feared for centuries across remote settlements. She lives in a mountain cave and waits for winter darkness to descend. Each …

Dec 4, 2025 · Find out all about the 13 Icelandic Yule Lads and their evil mother Gryla. Learn about the personality of each and every Yule Lad and when they come arrive from the mountains.

Iceland’s winter ogress stalks Yule nights with the Yule Cat, hunting naughty children and demanding kindness.

Grýla is a terrifying ogress associated with Christmas traditions. She is often depicted as a monstrous, troll-like creature with a voracious appetite for misbehaving children. Grýla remains …

5 days ago · “12 Days of Mythos: Gryla” from Anetteprs Illustrations (via Facebook) I know the Yule Lads are cute, and everyone loves a cat, but I think Grýla deserves more credit, like so …

Dec 23, 2024 · Gryla is a cannibalistic troll, often described as having horns and hoofs, a large warty nose, and thirteen or fifteen tails, according to Sturlunga Saga. On each tail, she had …

Dec 13, 2025 · Across the world, every country has its own seasonal mythology and Christmas traditions. In Iceland, these take a distinctive form through thirteen mischievous figures known …

Jul 19, 2024 · On the icy wind-whipped cliffs of Iceland, where the Northern Lights dance across the dark winter sky, the legend of Grýla lives and breathes in the minds of those who celebrate …