Troll cross

What it is

The troll cross is a traditional protective sigil found in Sweden and potentially Norway. It serves as a barrier against evil forces, malevolent supernatural powers, and creatures that might harm people or their belongings. The symbol typically takes the form of a cross, sometimes accompanied by other magical ornaments like giant horns. While the cross shape suggests Christian influence, the practice of using symbols for protection likely has pagan roots linked to earlier Norse traditions described in Icelandic sagas.

Where it comes from

This custom originated in middle Sweden, particularly in the region of Uppland, and was common in rural areas until the early twentieth century. The name derives from an older understanding of 'troll' referring to supernatural malevolence rather than just mythical giants. Similar protective practices appear in medieval Norwegian buildings and historical texts involving horse heads and other apotropaic signs.

How it is done

Households placed these crosses at entry points such as above doors or windows, or on entrance posts. Decorated items like tables could feature up to ten crosses. Protection extended to food; crosses were cast into metal cookware molds, cut into loaves of bread during baking, or stamped on grain mill holes. Specific rituals included burning a match in milk before sale and saying 'Gud signe' when breaking cookies.

Tools and materials

Traditional tools included wooden surfaces for carving and metal molds for casting. Iron holds specific significance in Nordic folklore because trolls are believed to fear or be allergic to it. This material preference influenced modern adaptations where smiths create looped iron pieces that cross each other, decorated with inward curls at the ends.

What it is for

The primary intent is protection against harm. Families used these charms to keep evil out of their homes and to safeguard their food supplies. Protecting milk products was considered especially important. The charms functioned as a spiritual shield within daily domestic life, ensuring safety for both inhabitants and sustenance.

Who does it

These charms were primarily maintained by household members in rural communities. No specialized priestly class is mentioned for this specific folk practice. In modern times, the craft has been taken up by artisans like Kari Erlands, a smith from Dalarna who began creating iron jewelry versions in the late 1990s, claiming inspiration from ancestral farm marks.

Peoples and places

The tradition is rooted in Swedish and Norwegian rural cultures. It reflects a blend of lingering pagan beliefs and later Christian symbolism. The practice demonstrates how everyday objects and food preparation became sites for spiritual defense against unseen dangers prevalent in pre-modern Scandinavian life.

When it is done

The use of troll crosses was integrated into daily routines rather than specific festivals. They appeared at entrances constantly and were applied during routine food processing tasks like baking bread or preparing milk for market. The practice was part of the general superstitious framework of rural life before modern times.

How scholars and sceptics see it

Scholars note that the term 'troll' in this context relates to esoteric magic or black magic, similar to words like 'trolleri' or 'trolldom'. Researchers distinguish between the modern fantasy concept of trolls and the historical view of them as generic malevolent supernatural entities including ghosts and devils.

Compare and confuse

The troll cross differs from standard Christian crosses by its folk application and association with iron. It shares similarities with other Nordic apotropaic signs found in sagas. The modern iron version resembles the Othala rune but is distinct in its construction and intended use as personal jewelry.

Questions people ask about Troll cross

Good reading and sources

• Troll cross on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data