Back to Events
The Draugr
Norse undead that guard their burial mounds with superhuman strength. They can swell to giant size, drive men mad, and curse entire bloodlines. Vikings feared them so much they built special graves.
Ancient - Present
Scandinavia
1000+ witnesses
The Draugr are the undead of Norse mythology.
The Legend
According to Norse tradition:
Draugr are:
- Reanimated corpses
- Guard their burial mounds
- Possess superhuman strength
- Can grow to enormous size
- Extremely dangerous
Their Appearance
Described as:
- Bloated and blue-black
- Stench of decay
- Eyes glow
- Can change size at will
- Hideous to behold
Their Powers
Draugr can:
- Crush men with strength
- Drive victims mad
- Control weather
- Curse families for generations
- Kill with their gaze
Burial Practices
Vikings tried to prevent them:
- Tied toes together
- Placed needles in feet
- Removed corpse through wall (not door)
- Heavy stones on graves
- Sometimes decapitation
The Mound
They haunt:
- Their burial site
- Guarding treasure
- Cannot stray far
- Active at night
- Return to grave by dawn
Famous Draugr
Sagas mention:
- Glámr from Grettis Saga
- Þráinn from Hrómundar
- Killed heroes
- Required special measures
- Often defeated by burning