Pagan holidays - Thorrablot

The first mention of the Icelandic holiday Torrablout dates back to the 13th century, indicating its ancient pagan origins. The literal translation of the name Torrablout is "Victim of the Fourth Winter Month". To understand the meaning of the holiday, you need to familiarize yourself with the Icelandic calendar. The fact is that in this northern island state, even today there are only two seasons - winter and summer, and “Torri” is the name of one of the months of winter. Whether this concept has a connection with the god Thor or another deity of the pagan pantheon is not known for certain. But it is absolutely clear that the celebration consisted of a ritual of sacrifice, because blót is translated as sacrifice. With the advent of Christianity, the ancient pagan cults were declared ungodly, and the revival of Torrablout occurred only at the end of the 19th century. The anniversary of the colonization of Iceland required a special celebration in the national romantic spirit. The festive room was decorated in the spirit of the Vikings of the early Middle Ages with carved wooden tables and thrones, painted shields and helmets, with blazing bonfires and braziers. In the mid-20th century, Torrablout was declared an official holiday as a tribute to the island's cultural past. Its specific date is the first Friday after January 19th. The holiday was replenished with interesting customs. So, the owner of the house, welcoming the onset of the fourth winter month, should jump around the house with his bare feet and his pants down. And as a treat, traditional Icelandic delicacies are offered, which will become the most incredible and risky exotic for all visitors. Guests can be pleased with hakarlem - cut from rotten shark meat, or a sheep's head smoked in a chimney. Local vodka aged in potatoes will help increase the level of fun. You can learn about the quality and effect of this drink from the name; “brennivin” translates as black death.