Heimdall

Heimdallr, or Heimdall, is a figure in Norse mythology best known as the watchman of the gods. He guards the rainbow bridge Bifröst and keeps vigil over Asgard, living at Himinbjörg at the edge of the world.

He is celebrated for extraordinary senses—especially hearing and sight—and for his promptness in detecting danger. He possesses the Gjallarhorn, a powerful horn that will be blown to signal events across the nine worlds during Ragnarök; he is also associated with a swift horse named Hofvarpnir.

In genealogical myths, Heimdall is linked to humanity’s origins. In the Rigsthula, he appears as Rig, the progenitor who fathers the three estates of humankind—thralls, karls, and jarls—by visiting three households. Some traditions also portray him as Odin’s son, though sources vary.

Myth holds that Heimdall will perish at Ragnarök, dying in a duel with Loki after sounding Gjallarhorn to warn the gods. He remains a prominent symbol of vigilance, guardianship, and steadfast watchfulness in Norse myth and later popular culture.