mára

Mæra is a term with multiple meanings across different contexts. In Old Norse tradition, Mæra refers to an ancient region located in what is now Norway, known for its significance in Viking Age history. The area served as an important political and cultural center, with documented settlements dating back to the early medieval period.

In biological taxonomy, Mæra is also a genus of flowering plants in the Apiaceae family, commonly found in Arctic and alpine regions. These perennial herbs are characterized by their compound leaves and small white flowers, typically growing in rocky or mountainous habitats.

The term may also appear in historical texts as a personal name or place name in various Scandinavian contexts. Etymological research suggests connections to Old Norse words meaning "famous" or "renowned," though precise origins remain subject to scholarly debate. Contemporary usage of the term is relatively limited, primarily preserved in historical references and specialized scientific nomenclature.