What is the realm of ice and mist?

The story behind the answer

Niflheim is the Norse realm of ice and mist; its name comes from Old Norse “nifl,” meaning fog or mist, and “heim,” meaning home. In the myths, Niflheim is one of the primordial worlds, paired with fiery Muspelheim across the yawning void Ginnungagap. When frost from Niflheim met sparks from Muspelheim, the first being, the giant Ymir, was formed—kickstarting creation.

To remember it, think “Nifl = sniffle” (cold, misty air makes you sniffle) or connect it to German “Nebel” (fog). Niflheim is also linked to the icy rivers Élivágar and, in some sources, to the underworld region Niflhel.