Hyboria

Hyboria is a fictional continent that serves as the primary setting for Robert E. Howard’s *Conan the Barbarian* stories, as well as other works by Howard and later authors in the *Conan* universe. Created in the 1930s, Hyboria is a vast, ancient land situated in a distant past, often described as a time of mythic grandeur and brutal warfare. The name "Hyboria" itself is derived from the Latinized form of the Old Norse *Hjörvarðr*, meaning "defender" or "guardian," reflecting its role as a bastion of civilization amid chaos.

Geographically, Hyboria is depicted as a landmass surrounded by the *Oceanus Acherontis*, a vast sea that separates it from other continents like Valusia, Nemedia, and Stygia. The continent is characterized by its diverse cultures, ranging from advanced civilizations like the Atlanteans and the ancient kings of Aquilonia to more primitive tribes such as the Cimmerians and the Hyborian barbarians. Major regions include the fertile plains of Aquilonia, the deserts of Zingara, the mountainous lands of Turan, and the coastal kingdoms of Shem and Punt.

Hyboria is notable for its historical timeline, which spans roughly 10,000 years, beginning with the rise and fall of Atlantis and culminating in the early medieval period of the *Conan* stories. The continent’s history is marked by the rise and fall of empires, the spread of barbarian tribes, and the lingering influence of ancient gods and monsters. Howard’s depictions often draw from mythological and historical inspirations, blending elements of Norse, Celtic, and Middle Eastern cultures.

In later adaptations, including comics, games, and novels, Hyboria has been expanded and reinterpreted. Some works maintain its original setting, while others explore alternate versions, such as *Conan the Barbarian* (1982) and *Conan the Adventurer* (2000), which present a more fantastical and cinematic version of the world. Despite variations, Hyboria remains a foundational element of the *Conan* mythos, embodying a world where heroism, savagery, and legend intersect.