Text: Marika Makarova

Learn about nine ancient legends and spirits from Estonian mythology who each use their special gifts and skills to master the environment around them. Take the Estonian Myth Quiz to discover your inner powers and find out which character you resemble most.
 

Ahti, Judge of the Sea

Ahti is an independent spirit, like the sea, existing in his powerful solitude yet always connected to the land through the coastline. Ahti is capable of taking the form of another sea creature to better understand them. Others may find that they must still be careful around him though, as his friendliness can suddenly turn to rage if someone is being disrespectful to others or things he loves. Ahti’s rage is comparable to a huge, monstrous sea squall, with thunderbolts flying from the eye of the storm. However, for Ahti, once justice has been served, all is forgotten and happiness is found again.

The places in Estonian nature most suited to you are: sea, beaches and islands.

Allikaravitseja, Healing Elf of the Springs

Allikaravitseja is the elven-like charmer. Everyone admires how graceful and delicate she is a fact she is well aware of, and yet only opens herself up to those who deserve it. Allikaravitseja appears as a reflection on the water and always feels the necessity of being sure and careful to approach people delicately and with subtlety. Once convinced of their good intentions, she is more than willing to open her beautiful spirit to them. With a companion like Allikaravitseja, a true healer of souls, they are truly blessed.

The places in Estonian nature most suited to you are: springs and witch’s wells, rivers and lakes, bogs.

Kivialune, Meditator of the Stony Caves

Kivialune is a tough and independent spirit loving solitude, peace and quiet. He enjoys time spent in environments that reflect his inner stillness and where it is easy to avoid human contact, such as caves, canyons and stony hide-aways. Kivialune can hide easily in a crowd, becoming a rock or stone any time he wants to. He truly enjoys his own company and appreciates himself just the way he is without seeing a need to change.

The places in Estonian nature most suited to you are: cliffs, canyons and rocks, beaches, hills and valleys.

Hiid, Hero of the Holy Forests

Hiid is a powerful and mighty spirit, strong and steadfast like a mountain. A natural communicator, always seeking someone to talk to, he is truly happiest being in the centre of attention – a giant standing tall in the midst of it all. For Hiid, it is usually all about impressing others and being admired. Fun to be around, Hiid is also rather quick to anger as well. Therefore, it is important for him to cool down after throwing trees and stones around.

The places in Estonian nature most suited to you are: hills and valleys, cliffs and canyons, forests.

Metsik, Elf of the Forests

Metsik is an adorable elven-like creature. She has a natural love and keenness for nature and is the protector of forests, always enjoying the company of forest creatures. Metsik transforms into a forest creature to learn more about others and can easily see through them just by close observing. She is a subtle and mysterious communicator who sometimes turns herself into a tree to whisper words to humanity by rustling its leaves.

The places in Estonian nature most suited to you are: forests, hills and valleys, cliffs, canyons and rocks.


Soovana, Guardian Spirit of the Wetlands

Soovana is the solitary guardian. Harmonious inside, and out, he is at peace with his surroundings. He shares the same pulse as the bogs and wildlife that surround him. He admires other peaceful and independent creatures like himself but usually prefers his own company. Soovana is a beguiler, appearing from nowhere, with eyes like two bright lights luring wanderers deeper and deeper into the bog. He is such a trickster!

The places in Estonian nature most suited to you are: bogs, springs and witch’s wells, rivers, lakes and waterfalls.

Näkk, Charmer of the Lakes and Rivers

Näkk is a charming mermaid-like creature, mysterious and volatile, just like the rivers where she resides. Näkk likes variety and fresh experiences and loves figuring out different ways to charm new acquaintances. It’s her specialty! Näkk’s magical voice, which resembles the hypnotic murmur of a river, can be very enticing. She can even be so alluring that one might just become completely stuck on her. Oh, how cunning and seductive Näkk is!

The places in Estonian nature most suited to you are:
rivers and lakes, springs and witch’s wells, bogs. 

Saarevaht, Keeper of the Islands
Saarevaht is a solitary, island-dwelling soul.

He is very protective of his home and loved ones. Saarevaht can communicate with plants and animals or even turn himself into a fox or an eagle. He is not always open to communicating with others, but is always kind and willing to introduce his world to other friendly and peaceful folk. However, Saarevaht can still be easily angered by carelessness and aggression.

The places in Estonian nature most suited to you are: islands, sea and beaches.

Murumemm, Mother of the Meadows

Murumemm is a true socialite whose radiance is simply contagious. While she is full of fascinating stories, she likes to keep things in perspective. Murumemm can take the shape of a bird or a deer or effortlessly communicate with any creature on the vast fields of Estonia. Though skilled at blending into a crowd, she can never truly go incognito, because the uplifting spark she carries distinguishes her.

The places in Estonian nature most suited to you are: cultural landscapes, islands and forests.

Take the test www.visitestonia.com/en/estonian-myth-quiz

The article was published first in Life in Estonia.

Edited for web by eesti.life.