Útgarðr

Útgarðr is a fortress or stronghold in Norse mythology, most notably mentioned in the Prose Edda, in the tale of Thor's visit to the land of the giants. It is the seat of power for the giant king Útgarða-Loki.

During Thor's journey, he and his companions, Loki, Þjálfi, and Róska, arrive at Útgarðr. Upon entering, they are greeted by Útgarða-Loki, who challenges them to a series of contests. These contests are designed to humble the gods and demonstrate the immense power and illusions of the giants.

Thor attempts to drink from a horn that is connected to the sea, Loki tries to out-eat the giant Logi (fire), Þjálfi races against Úpgaða-Loki's servant, Hugi (thought), and the others face challenges like lifting a giant cat and wrestling an old woman. Unbeknownst to the gods, these were not ordinary feats. The horn was connected to the ocean, the food was fire, the race was against thought itself, the cat was the Midgard Serpent, and the old woman was old age.

After their failed attempts, Útgarða-Loki reveals the illusions and explains that they were all tricked, and in fact, performed feats of incredible strength and speed that impressed even him. The gods are then sent away, defeated in spirit but having learned a valuable lesson about the nature of reality and perception. Útgarðr thus represents a place of powerful magic, illusion, and the formidable might of the Jotnar.