https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/rivers-in-time--5803878enHistoryCopyright Rivershttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/3576ad0ee690a28ee37fc36ed0daabe2.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/rivers-in-time--5803878Tue, 16 Jun 2026 03:34:56 +0000RiversRiversriversintime@proton.meMyths, folktales, and legends are often passed down orally, some more famous than another. They are rooted in general human experience and have always had important roles in the cultures. I believe every story has its place and deserves to be...falseepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-heart-after-death-a-history-of-love-grief-and-separate-burial--72543470She was not alone.
Across medieval and early modern Europe, the dead were sometimes buried in pieces. Hearts sent home from crusades, smuggled across borders, or kept in desk drawers for decades. A Breton noblewoman was found with her husband's heart in a lead casket. Mary Shelley kept what she believed was Percy Shelley's heart wrapped in silk. Chopin's sister risked everything to bring his heart back to Poland.
Why the heart? For centuries, Europeans believed it held love, memory, and even the soul. Removing it was a way to keep someone close, or send them somewhere sacred.
This is the strange, forgotten history of separate heart burial. From Sweetheart Abbey to the Habsburg crypts, from Saint Teresa's preserved relic to the question of where your own heart might rest.

Watch the video version of this episode:
https://youtu.be/CATMN17ErYY]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72543470Tue, 16 Jun 2026 02:53:44 +0000RiversFor twenty years, Lady Dervorguilla of Galloway carried her husband's heart in an ivory casket. She spoke to it. She slept beside it. When she died, the heart was buried with her. She was not alone. Across medieval and early modern Europe, the dead...She was not alone.
Across medieval and early modern Europe, the dead were sometimes buried in pieces. Hearts sent home from crusades, smuggled across borders, or kept in desk drawers for decades. A Breton noblewoman was found with her husband's heart in a lead casket. Mary Shelley kept what she believed was Percy Shelley's heart wrapped in silk. Chopin's sister risked everything to bring his heart back to Poland.
Why the heart? For centuries, Europeans believed it held love, memory, and even the soul. Removing it was a way to keep someone close, or send them somewhere sacred.
This is the strange, forgotten history of separate heart burial. From Sweetheart Abbey to the Habsburg crypts, from Saint Teresa's preserved relic to the question of where your own heart might rest.

Watch the video version of this episode:
https://youtu.be/CATMN17ErYY]]>903chopin,crusaders,deathrituals,dervorguilla,habsburg,heartburial,heartsymbol,historicalwomen,historypodcast,medievalhistory,relics,royalburial,sacredheart,sainttheresa,scottishhistory,seperateburial,sweetheartabbeyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-sacred-horse-that-guides-the-dead-chinese-burial-traditions--72483907
In this episode, we look at the forgotten Chinese tradition of giving the dead a horse. Not as a symbol of wealth, but as a guide and protector for the soul's perilous journey to the afterlife. From the horse worship rituals of the Zhou dynasty to the 600-horse burial of a Qi state king, we trace how ancient Chinese believed that the dead needed transportation. But burying real horses was only for the elite. Then, a revolutionary invention changed everything: paper.  

We follow the evolution of Zhi Zha, the art of burning paper effigies. From imperial luxury to a folk tradition that crossed class boundaries. Today, families still burn paper horses, alongside iPhones and designer handbags, as offerings of love and farewell.  

But do the dead really receive them? And why do we keep burning, even when we're not sure? This is a story about fear, hope, and the longest bridge between the living and the dead.

Watch the video version of this episode:
https://youtu.be/qI1qnesbtRc]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72483907Thu, 11 Jun 2026 17:39:08 +0000RiversSix hundred horses, buried in perfect rows. A 3,000-year-old ritual still practiced today. And a paper horse burning in a modern funeral.   In this episode, we look at the forgotten Chinese tradition of giving the dead a horse. Not as a symbol of...
In this episode, we look at the forgotten Chinese tradition of giving the dead a horse. Not as a symbol of wealth, but as a guide and protector for the soul's perilous journey to the afterlife. From the horse worship rituals of the Zhou dynasty to the 600-horse burial of a Qi state king, we trace how ancient Chinese believed that the dead needed transportation. But burying real horses was only for the elite. Then, a revolutionary invention changed everything: paper.  

We follow the evolution of Zhi Zha, the art of burning paper effigies. From imperial luxury to a folk tradition that crossed class boundaries. Today, families still burn paper horses, alongside iPhones and designer handbags, as offerings of love and farewell.  

But do the dead really receive them? And why do we keep burning, even when we're not sure? This is a story about fear, hope, and the longest bridge between the living and the dead.

Watch the video version of this episode:
https://youtu.be/qI1qnesbtRc]]>856afterlife,ancestorworship,ancientchina,burialtraditions,chinesefolkreligion,chinesemythology,daoistrituals,deathrituals,folklore,folktraditions,forgottenrituals,forgottentraditions,funeralrituals,ghostfestival,horsemythology,josspaper,papereoffering,qingming,yinandyang,zhizhafalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/when-cats-were-burned-hanged-and-blamed-for-treason--70041938
From there, we travel across medieval and early modern Europe. From French bonfires where cats were burned as witches, Belgian towers where they were thrown for sport, to Danish barrels where children now hunt for candy.

Along the way, we meet witch familiars named Sathan and Rutterkin,  accused cats in Shakespeare's Macbeth, and a political protest that got a dead cat dressed like a priest. This is not a story about one man's delusion. It's about why, for centuries, fear wore a cat's face, and what that says about us.

Press play. You'll never look at your cat the same way again.

Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jMuHysA_Sjw
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70041938Fri, 13 Feb 2026 17:33:44 +0000RiversA man walks into a palace, claims the English throne, and blames a talking cat. That bizarre story opens a darker door: Europe's centuries-long war on cats.  From there, we travel across medieval and early modern Europe. From French bonfires where...
From there, we travel across medieval and early modern Europe. From French bonfires where cats were burned as witches, Belgian towers where they were thrown for sport, to Danish barrels where children now hunt for candy.

Along the way, we meet witch familiars named Sathan and Rutterkin,  accused cats in Shakespeare's Macbeth, and a political protest that got a dead cat dressed like a priest. This is not a story about one man's delusion. It's about why, for centuries, fear wore a cat's face, and what that says about us.

Press play. You'll never look at your cat the same way again.

Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jMuHysA_Sjw
]]>1093ancientlore,catburning,darkhistoryofcat,fastelavn,folklore,history,kattenstoet,kingedwardiiofengland,medievalcats,royalimpostor,witchtrialsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-gods-who-killed-summer--68221104We all know the story of Persephone and Hades, or perhaps even of Inanna and Dumuzi, but what about the other gods and monsters who bring the end of summer? Let's talk about the forgotten myths of the Northern Isles and the Slavic world, where summer was torn down by sea battles, skinless horrors, and divine betrayal.
This is the story of two forgotten cycles: one born from the fury of the sea, the other from a betrayal on the land that explain why the golden days of summer must always come to an end.

In this episode, we cover:

The Orcadian myth of Sea Mither and Teran
The skinless horror of the Nuckelavee
How Slavic Jarilo's betrayal brings winter...

Watch the video version of this episode:
https://youtu.be/bcDxpRwnoFo]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68221104Tue, 21 Oct 2025 00:53:11 +0000RiversIn forgotten myths, summer was killed by gods, monsters, and storms. We all know the story of Persephone and Hades, or perhaps even of Inanna and Dumuzi, but what about the other gods and monsters who bring the end of summer? Let's talk about the...We all know the story of Persephone and Hades, or perhaps even of Inanna and Dumuzi, but what about the other gods and monsters who bring the end of summer? Let's talk about the forgotten myths of the Northern Isles and the Slavic world, where summer was torn down by sea battles, skinless horrors, and divine betrayal.
This is the story of two forgotten cycles: one born from the fury of the sea, the other from a betrayal on the land that explain why the golden days of summer must always come to an end.

In this episode, we cover:

The Orcadian myth of Sea Mither and Teran
The skinless horror of the Nuckelavee
How Slavic Jarilo's betrayal brings winter...

Watch the video version of this episode:
https://youtu.be/bcDxpRwnoFo]]>860celticmythology,darkfolklore,forgottenmyths,jarilo,legendarymonster,marzanna,morana,mythicalcreatures,nuckelavee,orcadianfolklore,perun,scottishfolklore,seamither,shetlandfolklore,slavicgods,slavicmythology,summermyth,teran,wintermyth,yarilofalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-sorcerer-who-vanished-from-the-tower-of-london--67639295The Elizabethans certainly thought so. In a world lit by candlelight and shadowed by mystery, belief in witches, spells, and omens was as real as the rising sun. From the royal court to the village square, magic and superstition shaped everyday life—guiding decisions, inspiring fear, and influencing even the greatest minds of the age.
In 1561, a man named Hew Draper vanished from the Tower of London, leaving behind only a strange astrological carving on his cell wall. Was it magic? An escape? Or something darker? This is the mysterious story of Elizabethan England's lost sorcerer. 

Dive into the facinating past of the Tower of London's Salt Tower and its most puzzling inmate. This video looks at the story of Hew Draper, the Bristol innkeeper who was accused of witchcraft and sorcery during Queen Elizabeth I's reign. We take a closer look at the detailed astrological sphere and planetary grid he etched into the wall of his prison cell—a silent message that still hasn't been solved. The video covers the history of Elizabethan occult practices, John Dee, astrological magic, the Witchcraft Act of 1563, and the influential figures Draper encountered, including Bess of Hardwick. Could this carving have served as a magical tool? A celestial chart? Or was it just a way for a condemned man to pass the time? did he become a victim of the Tudor justice system, or did he manage to escape his destiny through means we can't comprehend?
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67639295Thu, 04 Sep 2025 23:41:01 +0000RiversIs magic real?  The Elizabethans certainly thought so. In a world lit by candlelight and shadowed by mystery, belief in witches, spells, and omens was as real as the rising sun. From the royal court to the village square, magic and superstition shaped...The Elizabethans certainly thought so. In a world lit by candlelight and shadowed by mystery, belief in witches, spells, and omens was as real as the rising sun. From the royal court to the village square, magic and superstition shaped everyday life—guiding decisions, inspiring fear, and influencing even the greatest minds of the age.
In 1561, a man named Hew Draper vanished from the Tower of London, leaving behind only a strange astrological carving on his cell wall. Was it magic? An escape? Or something darker? This is the mysterious story of Elizabethan England's lost sorcerer. 

Dive into the facinating past of the Tower of London's Salt Tower and its most puzzling inmate. This video looks at the story of Hew Draper, the Bristol innkeeper who was accused of witchcraft and sorcery during Queen Elizabeth I's reign. We take a closer look at the detailed astrological sphere and planetary grid he etched into the wall of his prison cell—a silent message that still hasn't been solved. The video covers the history of Elizabethan occult practices, John Dee, astrological magic, the Witchcraft Act of 1563, and the influential figures Draper encountered, including Bess of Hardwick. Could this carving have served as a magical tool? A celestial chart? Or was it just a way for a condemned man to pass the time? did he become a victim of the Tudor justice system, or did he manage to escape his destiny through means we can't comprehend?
]]>729astrologicalcarving,bessofhardwick,elizabethanmagic,elizabethansuperstitions,history,johndee,legend,lore,magician,occulthistory,strangedisappearances,toweroflondonprisoner,tudormystery,unsolvedmysteriesfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sacred-magic-or-saintly-madness-the-dark-truth-of-scotland-s-holy-isle--67639245
In this episode, we cover:

Queen Victoria's visit to Isle Meree
The healing well
The sacred Oak tree
The forgotten rituals
The old gods/ spirits of the Island]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67639245Thu, 04 Sep 2025 23:34:59 +0000RiversDeep in Loch Maree, a tiny island hides a tree studded with coins, a well that forgot how to heal, and graves of lovers who trusted fate too far. Isle Maree is where Scottish legends whisper of magic, saintly miracles, and a queen’s secret wish. But...
In this episode, we cover:

Queen Victoria's visit to Isle Meree
The healing well
The sacred Oak tree
The forgotten rituals
The old gods/ spirits of the Island]]>1286druidritualscotland,folklore,history,holywellmadness,legend,lochmaree,mysterious places,queenvictoriaoccult,sacredisland,scottishfolklore,scottishlegend,vikinglovestoryscotlandfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-magical-journey-may-day-celebrations-in-britain--65798915In this episode, we take a look at some of the celebrations taking place in England, Scotland, and the Isle of Man.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65798915Tue, 29 Apr 2025 23:47:40 +0000RiversMay Day celebrations in Britain are full of colours, from the crowning of the May Queen, Jack in the Green parade, Morris dancing, and Bealtaine fire festival to the collecting of May dew. The list goes on.  In this episode, we take a look at some of...In this episode, we take a look at some of the celebrations taking place in England, Scotland, and the Isle of Man.
]]>1095bealtaine,bealtine,beltane,culture,fairy,festival,folklore,isleofman,legend,mayday,mayqueenfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/when-snakes-ruled-the-world-serpent-myths-of-ancient-china--65114606
From the primordial chaos of Pangu to the cosmic repairs of Nüwa and the cultural innovations of Fuxi, along with other myths, symbols and legacy of snakes in Chinese culture, how have these stories influenced the world we recognize today?
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65114606Tue, 25 Mar 2025 23:11:35 +0000RiversIn the ancient world where serpents ruled supreme—a time when snakes were not just creatures, but creators, protectors, and symbols of life itself.  From the primordial chaos of Pangu to the cosmic repairs of Nüwa and the cultural innovations of...
From the primordial chaos of Pangu to the cosmic repairs of Nüwa and the cultural innovations of Fuxi, along with other myths, symbols and legacy of snakes in Chinese culture, how have these stories influenced the world we recognize today?
]]>1688chinesefolklore,chinesegodsandgoddesses,chinesemythology,creationmyth,culturalfestivalschina,culture,dnadoublehelixmyth,dragonandserpent,folklore,ichinghexagrams,nuwafuxi,paiwantribeviper,pangumyth,serpentsymbolism,shanhaijing,snakedeitieschina,snakemythology,snakeworship,tribaltotemschina,yearofthesnakefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/december-13-the-night-a-winter-spirit-became-a-saint--63660142Every December 13th, Scandinavia celebrates a saint of light. But long before the candles of Santa Lucia glowed, the longest night of the old winter solstice belonged to Lussi- a powerful and formidable spirit who inspected every home and barn. Her annual visit was met with both reverence and fear.
How did the story of this ancient winter entity transform into the beloved celebration of a saint of light? This is the tale of a profound folklore evolution: the night a Winter Spirit was remembered, reinterpreted, and ultimately, reborn as a Saint.
Has the old gods been replaced by the new? who is Lucia of Syracuse? There is no shortage of folklore and mythology associated with the winter season. Many symbols have evolved with the introduction of Christianity to these regions, often blending with remnants of old traditions.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63660142Sat, 11 Jan 2025 21:45:46 +0000RiversThis is the story of the Longest Night, and the two figures- one feared, one beloved- who came to define it.  Every December 13th, Scandinavia celebrates a saint of light. But long before the candles of Santa Lucia glowed, the longest night of the old...Every December 13th, Scandinavia celebrates a saint of light. But long before the candles of Santa Lucia glowed, the longest night of the old winter solstice belonged to Lussi- a powerful and formidable spirit who inspected every home and barn. Her annual visit was met with both reverence and fear.
How did the story of this ancient winter entity transform into the beloved celebration of a saint of light? This is the tale of a profound folklore evolution: the night a Winter Spirit was remembered, reinterpreted, and ultimately, reborn as a Saint.
Has the old gods been replaced by the new? who is Lucia of Syracuse? There is no shortage of folklore and mythology associated with the winter season. Many symbols have evolved with the introduction of Christianity to these regions, often blending with remnants of old traditions.]]>1512bedtimestory,longest-night,lucia-syracuse,santalucia,st.lucy,swedishfolklore,wintersolstice,winter-talefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/dark-winter-forgotten-rituals-blood-lore-ancient-winter-legends--62994392This video look deeper into the old November festivals, from medieval traditions and ancestral rites to eerie folklore surrounding the darker season of the year. You’ll hear stories of strange green children, supernatural hunt, protective rituals, sacred animals, fairy tribe, secret society, forgotten term days, and the the significance of St. Martin's Day/ Martinmas.
Why did November once hold such significance?
Why were certain sacrifices, offerings, and taboos observed on specific days?
And how did these ancient beliefs survive- even into the modern era?
From medieval feasts to pagan rites, from folkloric beings to the spirits of the dead- this is the lost world of Dark November.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62994392Mon, 25 Nov 2024 03:58:47 +0000RiversNovember has long been known as a dark and liminal month- a time caught between the fading echoes of Samhain and the slow approach of winter. Across Britain and Ireland, this was once a busy period filled with forgotten rituals, blood sacrifices,...This video look deeper into the old November festivals, from medieval traditions and ancestral rites to eerie folklore surrounding the darker season of the year. You’ll hear stories of strange green children, supernatural hunt, protective rituals, sacred animals, fairy tribe, secret society, forgotten term days, and the the significance of St. Martin's Day/ Martinmas.
Why did November once hold such significance?
Why were certain sacrifices, offerings, and taboos observed on specific days?
And how did these ancient beliefs survive- even into the modern era?
From medieval feasts to pagan rites, from folkloric beings to the spirits of the dead- this is the lost world of Dark November.]]>1254blackthornwinter,bloodmonth,britishfolklore,cwnannwn,greenchildrenofwoolpit,martinmas,novemberfestivals,novemberrituals,remembranceday,stmartinday,wildhunt,winterfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-dragon-that-shaped-a-nation-vietnam-s-mythical-origins--61130265
To some, dragons are not only real, but part of their ancestry. 

Meet the dragons of the East- the dragons of Vietnam, to be precise.

The dragon of the east is often associated with its importance in Chinese culture; however, it is equally revered in Vietnamese culture, perhaps even to a greater extent. In Vietnamese mythology and folklore, dragons occupy a unique and cherished position, serving as saviors, protectors, and ancestral figures for the nation.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61130265Fri, 23 Aug 2024 19:54:50 +0000RiversDo you believe in dragons? To some, dragons are not only real, but part of their ancestry.  Meet the dragons of the East- the dragons of Vietnam, to be precise. The dragon of the east is often associated with its importance in Chinese culture;...
To some, dragons are not only real, but part of their ancestry. 

Meet the dragons of the East- the dragons of Vietnam, to be precise.

The dragon of the east is often associated with its importance in Chinese culture; however, it is equally revered in Vietnamese culture, perhaps even to a greater extent. In Vietnamese mythology and folklore, dragons occupy a unique and cherished position, serving as saviors, protectors, and ancestral figures for the nation.]]>1396asianlegends,aucoandlaclongquan,culturalhistory,dragon,dragonancestry,dragonking,dragonkinglefend,folklore,halongbay,legend,motherdragon,mythology,vietnam,vietnamesefolklore,vietnamoriginstoryfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/fairy-human-offspring-children-of-two-worlds--61130250
The stories of Heracles, Theseus, and Perseus are widely recognised; however, in addition to the connections between mortals and gods, what can be said about the relationship between fairies and humans?

Numerous myths and folklore mention the union of humans and fairies; what if they are not just mere tales? What if they are walking among us?

This episode walks you through two legends—one from a small village in South Wales and another set in the inner Hebrides of Scotland.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61130250Fri, 23 Aug 2024 19:52:07 +0000RiversDo fairy-human offspring exist? If so, who are they? Do they stand out from the crowd? Would they inherit the traits of their parents? The stories of Heracles, Theseus, and Perseus are widely recognised; however, in addition to the connections...
The stories of Heracles, Theseus, and Perseus are widely recognised; however, in addition to the connections between mortals and gods, what can be said about the relationship between fairies and humans?

Numerous myths and folklore mention the union of humans and fairies; what if they are not just mere tales? What if they are walking among us?

This episode walks you through two legends—one from a small village in South Wales and another set in the inner Hebrides of Scotland.]]>1414clanbattle,faebloodline,fairy,fairy-human,fairy-human-offsprings,folklore,gwrageddannwn,humanfaerelationship,hybrid,legend,mythology,scotland,thebattleoftraighghuinneart,thephysiciansofmyddfai,tylwythteg,wales,welshmythologyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/supernatural-assistants-tales-of-devotion-and-betrayal--59328285
Throughout history, countless stories have been told about these supernatural assistants. Some depict them as kind and benevolent, always ready to lend a hand. Others, however, portray them as mischievous or even malevolent. In this episode, we will delve into two such stories. One will showcase an assistant with unwavering loyalty, while the other will explore a completely contrasting tale.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59328285Sun, 07 Apr 2024 08:53:05 +0000RiversSpirit helpers come in all shapes and forms. From the witches familiar; shaman’s guide to the spirit realm; the brùnaidh; fairy; hobgoblin; pixie;  domovoi; to the Lares... the list of these extraordinary beings is endless. Throughout history,...
Throughout history, countless stories have been told about these supernatural assistants. Some depict them as kind and benevolent, always ready to lend a hand. Others, however, portray them as mischievous or even malevolent. In this episode, we will delve into two such stories. One will showcase an assistant with unwavering loyalty, while the other will explore a completely contrasting tale.]]>1145familiar,ghost,legends,magic,myths,scottishfolklorefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/catalina-the-mysterious-guardian--58894659Meet Catalina, a mysterious yet courageous girl with a knack for the extraordinary.

In Dumaguete, Philippines, a strange young girl with mystical abilities defends her homelands against invaders and mystical beasts alike.

Who is Catalina? Was she a magician, a fairy, or an angel? The details have faded with time, but the legend of her quiet yet powerful presence and the positive influence she had on her community continue to be remembered, shining as a symbol of hope and a guardian spirit for her people.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58894659Sat, 02 Mar 2024 00:28:34 +0000RiversMeet Catalina, a mysterious yet courageous girl with a knack for the extraordinary. In Dumaguete, Philippines, a strange young girl with mystical abilities defends her homelands against invaders and mystical beasts alike. Who is Catalina? Was she a...Meet Catalina, a mysterious yet courageous girl with a knack for the extraordinary.

In Dumaguete, Philippines, a strange young girl with mystical abilities defends her homelands against invaders and mystical beasts alike.

Who is Catalina? Was she a magician, a fairy, or an angel? The details have faded with time, but the legend of her quiet yet powerful presence and the positive influence she had on her community continue to be remembered, shining as a symbol of hope and a guardian spirit for her people.]]>642legend,mythology,philippines folklorefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chasing-aurora-myths-and-legends-of-the-northern-lights--58000554https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58000554Wed, 13 Dec 2023 21:04:14 +0000RiversThe Northern Lights, known by various names across culture, a cosmic spectacle that has inspired wonder and storytelling for generations. While science unravels the mechanics of the phenomenon, the cultural wonders and myths persist.1124aurora,northernlightsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-three-witches-women-of-magic-and-misfortune--57461877Around 4,000 people across Scotland accused of being witches between the 16th and 18th centuries. Stories were told, some more than another. In this episode, we look into the world of the 3 Bessies- remarkable women whose lives were intertwined with magic, tragedy and untold mysteries. 
Are there connection between fairies and witches? what are the weather witch like? Are spae-wife and Völva share similarity? ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57461877Tue, 31 Oct 2023 21:33:21 +0000Rivers【Stories of Three Witches】 Around 4,000 people across Scotland accused of being witches between the 16th and 18th centuries. Stories were told, some more than another. In this episode, we look into the world of the 3 Bessies- remarkable women whose...Around 4,000 people across Scotland accused of being witches between the 16th and 18th centuries. Stories were told, some more than another. In this episode, we look into the world of the 3 Bessies- remarkable women whose lives were intertwined with magic, tragedy and untold mysteries. 
Are there connection between fairies and witches? what are the weather witch like? Are spae-wife and Völva share similarity? ]]>988bessie-dunlop,bessie-miller-brinkie-brae,burningtime,datkhistory,fairy-court,fairy-queen,female-prophets,good-witches,halloween-story,magic,magic-stories,scottish-witches,spae-wife,volva,weather-witch-orkney,witches,witches-and-fairy,witch-hunt,witchtrials,witch-trial-scotlandfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/before-you-re-reborn-the-one-drink-every-soul-must-take--57132275Two powerful journeys to the underworld: one from the East (Chinese) and the other from the West (Greek). What are the steps? who are the judges of the dead souls in different stages/ realms of the underworld? And the punishments? 
Both myths feature important rivers of the underworld that play a key role before reincarnation.
These rivers in the underworld are central to the passage of souls- the waters are said to help them forget their past lives before entering the next. 
The ultimate question is: would you drink the water of forgetfulness, or keep your memories to face the consequences?]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57132275Sat, 07 Oct 2023 01:50:20 +0000Rivers【Underworld Mythology and Folklore】What happens when we die?  Two powerful journeys to the underworld: one from the East (Chinese) and the other from the West (Greek). What are the steps? who are the judges of the dead souls in different stages/...Two powerful journeys to the underworld: one from the East (Chinese) and the other from the West (Greek). What are the steps? who are the judges of the dead souls in different stages/ realms of the underworld? And the punishments? 
Both myths feature important rivers of the underworld that play a key role before reincarnation.
These rivers in the underworld are central to the passage of souls- the waters are said to help them forget their past lives before entering the next. 
The ultimate question is: would you drink the water of forgetfulness, or keep your memories to face the consequences?]]>991afterlife,chinesemythology,greekmythology,mythology,underworldfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/buried-hope-king-arthur-s-promise--57132251
The question is: where???

Join us on a quest to explore the myriad locations that claim to be the resting place of Arthur and his valiant companions, patiently awaiting the call to rise in times of dire need.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57132251Sat, 07 Oct 2023 01:50:09 +0000RiversIt has long been a known tale in Britain, that Arthur and his knights fell into an enchanted sleep. The question is: where??? Join us on a quest to explore the myriad locations that claim to be the resting place of Arthur and his valiant...
The question is: where???

Join us on a quest to explore the myriad locations that claim to be the resting place of Arthur and his valiant companions, patiently awaiting the call to rise in times of dire need.]]>1120kingarthurfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/thomas-the-rhymer-the-man-who-went-with-the-elven-queen--57132119
Legend talked about his meeting with the Elven queen, and how she granted him the gift of prophecy which later earned him the reputation for making many accurate prophesies.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57132119Sat, 07 Oct 2023 01:50:00 +0000RiversThomas the Rhymer/ Thomas Rimor de Ercildoun /Thomas Learmont was born somewhere around 1220. Nickname ‘True Thomas’ for they said that he was not able to tell a lie, no matter how much he wished to do so. Legend talked about his meeting with the...
Legend talked about his meeting with the Elven queen, and how she granted him the gift of prophecy which later earned him the reputation for making many accurate prophesies.]]>607falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-true-story-that-inspired-the-headless-horseman--57131774Ewen Of the Little Head’ – the headless horseman of the Scottish lore. He is not just a legend, but the spirit of an actual person.

Stories of the headless horseman appear in various cultures around the world. Many are familiar with Washington Irving’s tale, With Irving coming from Scottish roots it’s likely that this bit of Celtic mythology passed to him through his father and inspired Irving in the creation of his own dark rider.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57131774Sat, 07 Oct 2023 01:49:49 +0000Rivers‘Ewen Of the Little Head’ – the headless horseman of the Scottish lore. He is not just a legend, but the spirit of an actual person. Stories of the headless horseman appear in various cultures around the world. Many are familiar with Washington...Ewen Of the Little Head’ – the headless horseman of the Scottish lore. He is not just a legend, but the spirit of an actual person.

Stories of the headless horseman appear in various cultures around the world. Many are familiar with Washington Irving’s tale, With Irving coming from Scottish roots it’s likely that this bit of Celtic mythology passed to him through his father and inspired Irving in the creation of his own dark rider.]]>448battleprophecy,celticfolklore,fairyprophecy,ghoststoriesscotland,halloweentales,headlesshorseman,horrostory,scottishfolklore,supernaturaltales,truelegendstoryfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/pixies-piskies-guardians-and-mischievous-companions--55159834Who are the Pixies/Piskies? are they the same as fairies?

As the winds whisper through the ancient trees and the rivers flow with secrets untold, the folklore of the pixies/piskies thrives within the West Country’s cultural heritage. This episode tell the stories of battles, celebrations, and encounters with the merry folk.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/55159834Mon, 26 Jun 2023 23:18:32 +0000Rivers【Pixies and Fairies Lore】 Who are the Pixies/Piskies? are they the same as fairies? As the winds whisper through the ancient trees and the rivers flow with secrets untold, the folklore of the pixies/piskies thrives within the West Country’s cultural...Who are the Pixies/Piskies? are they the same as fairies?

As the winds whisper through the ancient trees and the rivers flow with secrets untold, the folklore of the pixies/piskies thrives within the West Country’s cultural heritage. This episode tell the stories of battles, celebrations, and encounters with the merry folk.]]>1256cornwall,devon,piskies,pixiesfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/enchanted-waters-tales-of-mermaid-s-revenge--54125933
These tales continue to captivate the imagination, reminding us of the consequences of arrogance, betrayal, and the potent magic that lies within the depths of the sea.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/54125933Wed, 07 Jun 2023 11:16:32 +0000RiversAcross the British Isles, the mermaid's revenge took various forms, casting a dark shadow upon those who dared cross her path. These tales continue to captivate the imagination, reminding us of the consequences of arrogance, betrayal, and the potent...
These tales continue to captivate the imagination, reminding us of the consequences of arrogance, betrayal, and the potent magic that lies within the depths of the sea.]]>814britishfolklore,curses,legend,mermaid,revengefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-magical-finkfolk-of-orkney--54125902https://api.spreaker.com/episode/54125902Wed, 07 Jun 2023 11:12:15 +0000RiversFinkfolk- amphibious sea people who resided in both Hildaland and Finfolkaheem are unique to Orkney and Shetland. Some even make connection to the Cthulhu mythos, linked their likeness to the fishy villagers of Innsmouth585mermaid,mythology,orkney,scottishfolklore,seapeoplefalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/unicorn-the-untamed-national-beast-of-scotland--53530314
In this episode, we are going to talk about the link of this mythical creature to the Scottish nation.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53530314Thu, 13 Apr 2023 23:51:35 +0000RiversThe unicorn is a mythical creature that has captured the imagination of people throughout history. Its origin story is somewhat unclear, but it has appeared in various tales and myths throughout the ages. In this episode, we are going to talk about...
In this episode, we are going to talk about the link of this mythical creature to the Scottish nation.]]>708scotland,scotlandnationalanimal,unicornfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/not-just-the-tooth-fairy-tooth-loss-traditions-around-the-world--53182208The Tooth Fairy is a popular figure in Western folklore who is said to visit children when they lose a baby tooth, collect the tooth, and leave a small gift or money in exchange.
But Tooth Fairy is not the only one- many cultures around the world have their own unique stories and legends related to children losing their baby teeth.
So what are the global tooth fairy alternatives, cultural tooth rituals, folklore of lost teeth?
Listen and find out!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53182208Mon, 13 Mar 2023 12:27:52 +0000Rivers【Tooth Fairy Tales and Legends】What do you do when your child lose their first tooth? The Tooth Fairy is a popular figure in Western folklore who is said to visit children when they lose a baby tooth, collect the tooth, and leave a small gift or money...The Tooth Fairy is a popular figure in Western folklore who is said to visit children when they lose a baby tooth, collect the tooth, and leave a small gift or money in exchange.
But Tooth Fairy is not the only one- many cultures around the world have their own unique stories and legends related to children losing their baby teeth.
So what are the global tooth fairy alternatives, cultural tooth rituals, folklore of lost teeth?
Listen and find out!]]>947toothfairyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/hares-and-rabbits-in-lunar-myths--53088193Many cultures, when looking at the moon, see the outline of a hare or rabbit, who lives on the moon. A great example being the mid-autumn festival.
They are often seen as an intermediary between the lunar deities and humans. 
From the Chinese, Aztec, Celt to the Egyptian, the association of hares, rabbit with moon deities leapt through myths, legends, and folk tales all around the world. 
Sweet and innocent or trickster in nature? You decide.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53088193Fri, 03 Mar 2023 21:33:32 +0000RiversThe association of hares, rabbit with moon deities leapt through myths, legends, and folk tales all around the world. Many cultures, when looking at the moon, see the outline of a hare or rabbit, who lives on the moon. A great example being the...Many cultures, when looking at the moon, see the outline of a hare or rabbit, who lives on the moon. A great example being the mid-autumn festival.
They are often seen as an intermediary between the lunar deities and humans. 
From the Chinese, Aztec, Celt to the Egyptian, the association of hares, rabbit with moon deities leapt through myths, legends, and folk tales all around the world. 
Sweet and innocent or trickster in nature? You decide.]]>781moonandrabbit,moongoddessfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/witches-of-mull--53088055
Tobermory, the capital of Mull tells a story of a Spanish romance, and the group of witches who helped the people to defend the land. Luideag, Corrag Nighin Jain Bhain, Cas a'mhogain Riabhaich Gleancomham, Gormshuil mhor na Maighe among others fought alongside the Doideag Mhuileach in the battle with the mighty Armada]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53088055Fri, 03 Mar 2023 21:31:18 +0000RiversIsle of Mull- a magical land full of stories of giants, witches, fairies and many more…. Tobermory, the capital of Mull tells a story of a Spanish romance, and the group of witches who helped the people to defend the land. Luideag, Corrag Nighin Jain...
Tobermory, the capital of Mull tells a story of a Spanish romance, and the group of witches who helped the people to defend the land. Luideag, Corrag Nighin Jain Bhain, Cas a'mhogain Riabhaich Gleancomham, Gormshuil mhor na Maighe among others fought alongside the Doideag Mhuileach in the battle with the mighty Armada]]>532isleofmull,scottishfolklore,witchesfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/michael-scott-the-forgotten-wizard--53088026https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53088026Fri, 03 Mar 2023 21:27:17 +0000RiversMichael Scott was an important figure at the court of the Holy Roman Emperor. His works were valued around Europe in the 13th century. Scott’s extensive esoteric knowledge earned him a reputation of ‘Wizard’.674magic,wizardfalsefull