Oh the things you learn when you travel.
I saw this statue in front of a restaurant when we were visiting the geysers.
GLÍMA, the most widespread sport of the Viking Age, was the foundation of self defense for Viking warriors.
Scandinavian children started learning the martial art as early as 6 years old.
Its earliest mention comes from a poem about Thor (the Viking god of wrestling) by the 9th-century Norwegian poet Bragi Boddason.
Glíma is practiced in three different styles.
The most common form in Sweden and Iceland is called Brokartök (trouser-grip), which focuses on technique rather than strength.
Opponents must remain erect and are only permitted to move clockwise around each other, like a waltzGlíma is the national sport of Iceland.
It’s been taught in Icelandic primary schools since 1987 and the country has held championships since 1906.
The winner of the highly celebrated event is called Glímukóngur (Glíma king).