Svartalfheim

Svartalfheim, Svartálfaheimr in Old Norse, is the home of the dark elves. Being somewhat antithesis to Alfheim, a land of light, another name for this realm is Niðavellir meaning "dark fields". Generally, it is thought to be a land of rock, crags, caves, and darkness and the dark elves are thought to live underground in such abodes.

Confusion exists, however, as to the exact nature of this realm and its inhabitants. Some argue that the dark elves are the same as "dwarves" referenced throughout old Norse literature. Others say that the two races are completely separate, even arguing that Svartálfaheimr and Niðavellir are two different locations entirely. Personally, I believe that the two are identical and the naming is used interchangeably.

Aside from this confusion, the dwarves are known throughout the nine realms as master craftsmen. Some of their more famous works include Odin’s spear - Gungnir - and even Thor’s hammer - Mjölnir. Even more interesting is that these beings are said to have evolved from maggots crawling in the flesh of the first giant, Ymir.