Lucky Charms of Iceland

Iceland has the most intact Norse magical tradition in the world, preserved through medieval grimoires (galdrabók) that contain the stave symbols still used and tattooed today. The Vegvisir is Iceland's most famous magical stave — a runic compass that ensures the bearer never loses their way, famously tattooed on Björk. The Helm of Awe (Ægishjálmr) was historically painted on foreheads before battle for invincibility. Both are now popular as jewelry, tattoos, and art prints.

Icelanders continue to take the existence of the huldufólk (hidden folk — elves) more seriously than most nations: surveys suggest a majority of Icelanders refuse to definitively deny their existence, and roads have been rerouted to avoid elf stones. The northern lights (aurora borealis) are considered auspicious — particularly for children conceived under them. The horse is a sacred animal in Icelandic culture.