In Norse mythology, Muspelheim is the realm ruled by the fire giant Surtr.
Muspelheim, also called Múspell, is a fiery world inhabited by fire beings. It is one of the mythic realms described in Norse cosmology and is positioned in opposition to the icy realm Niflheim in creation stories. Their interaction helps produce the conditions from which the world emerges.
At Ragnarök, Surtr leads the fire giants from Muspelheim toward the final battle. His flaming weapon and destructive fire are central to the world’s burning. Muspelheim is therefore both a primordial cosmic region and the source of a major destructive force.
Muspelheim is often confused with Jötunheim, the realm associated with the giants more generally. Niflheim is linked with cold, mist, and the underworld, while Álfheim is associated with elves. These realms have distinct roles in Norse mythic geography.