Nordheim lay to the north of the central Hyborian kingdoms, It was separated by vast, rugged landscapes and colder climates. Nordheim was characterized by its harsh, icy terrain and the fierce, warlike Nordheimer people. The Aesir occupied the northern part of Nordheim, known as Asgard. The Vanir, residing in the western part of Nordheim known as Vanaheim, were frequently at odds with the Aesir. The Vanir were renowned for their raids into Cimmeria and beyond, maintaining a fierce warrior tradition. Despite sharing cultural traits with the Vanir, the Aesir were often at war with them.