There are a TON of hidden details and secrets in Disney World.

Norway Pavilion in EPCOT

You can find hidden Mickeys all over the parks, see a few secrets in the Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom, and even check out some fun details that Imagineers have left on attractions. And, Disney has no shortage of these interesting facts and secrets. In fact, we’re about to tell you about a detail in EPCOT that we’re almost positive you don’t already know!

Disney Imagineer Zach Riddley (@TheZachRiddley on Instagram) recently shared about a fun detail in EPCOT. Outside of the Royal Sommerhus in EPCOT’s Norway Pavilion is a small courtyard. This courtyard was added on when the pavilion was expanded in 2016. In this area, you can find six runestones that have carved words and images in the 11th Century AD Viking tradition.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Zach Riddley (@thezachriddley)

If you don’t know, there are about 3,000 known runestones across Scandinavia, with 50 still existing in Norway. The purpose of these runestones was to mark territory, explain inheritance, boast about construction feats, and talk about important events.

Via @TheZachRiddley on Instagram

These six runestones in EPCOT’s Norway pavilion have a newer history — Imagineers recreated a lot of the pictograms and carvings that used to be in the Maelstrom ride, which is now Frozen Ever After. All six runes have recreations from within two different scenes of the attraction. And, the designs can actually be traced back to the original designs found in Norway!

Via @TheZachRiddley on Instagram

But, it gets better — one of these runestones has a bit of an EPCOT twist to it. There is a special inscription on it that translates to:

“You are not the first to pass this way
Nor will you be the last
Those who seek the spirit of Norway face peril and adventure
But more often find beauty and charm”

Via @TheZachRiddley on Instagram

This is an awesome way to remember part of the Maelstrom attraction, and it’s permanently a part of the pavilion to remind people who pass by.

Via @TheZachRiddley on Instagram

So, there’s a little bit of a fun secret for you to check out the next time you’re in the Norway Pavilion in EPCOT!

Via @TheZachRiddley on Instagram

For more Disney World secrets, check out the SECRET bathrooms of Disney World, how to get into a SECRET lounge in EPCOT, and the SECRETS of the Moana attraction coming to EPCOT.

Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney news and updates!

18 Disney World Secrets Even Locals Don’t Know

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Did you already know about this detail? Tell us in the comments!

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