põhjalate

Põhjalate is a term used in Estonian folklore and mythology to refer to a mythical land or region in the north. It is often associated with the cold, the wild, and supernatural beings. Descriptions of Põhjalate vary in different folk tales and epic poems, such as the Estonian national epic "Kalevipoeg." In "Kalevipoeg," Põhjalate is depicted as the realm of the Kalevi poeg's adversaries, the inhabitants of the land of Kaleva's northern neighbor, the giants of Northland.

The inhabitants of Põhjalate are often portrayed as powerful sorcerers, giants, and other mythical creatures who possess magical abilities. They are depicted as skilled craftsmen, particularly in metalworking and the creation of magical items. The land itself is sometimes described as a barren, icy landscape, while at other times it is a place of great wealth and power. The relationship between the inhabitants of Põhjalate and the heroes of Estonian mythology is typically one of conflict and rivalry.

The concept of Põhjalate reflects the ancient Estonian worldview, where the north represented a distant and often dangerous realm. It served as a contrasting element to the more familiar and habitable southern lands, embodying the unknown and the extraordinary. The tales of Põhjalate contribute to the rich tapestry of Estonian oral tradition, offering insights into cultural beliefs about the natural world and the supernatural.