Ala or Hala is a term that has multiple meanings and interpretations across different cultures and languages. In some mythologies, Ala refers to a female demon associated with bad weather, particularly hail-producing thunderclouds. These demons are believed to target fields, vineyards, and orchards to destroy crops or loot them away. The term is recorded in …
Umacı is a Turkish word that translates to “scarecrow” or “bogeyman” in English. It is a term often used to describe a fictional monster or creature that is used to frighten children. The word “umacı” is derived from the Turkish verb “umak,” which means “to suspect” or “to anticipate.” In Turkish folklore, the umacı is …
Taotao Mona, also known as taotaomona or taotaomo’na, are ancestral spirits that are believed to protect the mountains and wild places of the Mariana Islands. These spirits are considered to be the ancient giant inhabitants of the islands, which include Luta, Saipan, Tinian, and Guam in Micronesia. Belief in Taotao Mona is present throughout these …
Öcü is a fictional creature that is traditionally used to scare children. The term “öcü” is used in Turkish to refer to such a creature. It is often portrayed as a monster or a ghost that haunts children. The concept of öcü is deeply ingrained in Turkish culture and has been passed down through generations. …
Nightingale the Robber is a legendary character who appears in traditional Russian byliny. He is also known as Solovei the Brigand and is considered an epic robber. According to the byliny, Nightingale was notorious for murdering travelers with his powerful whistle. He is said to have lived in the forests of Bryansk, where he terrorized …
Likho is a mythical creature that embodies evil fate and misfortune in Slavic mythology. It is often depicted as an old, skinny woman in black or an evil male goblin of forests with one eye. Likho is known for causing accidental drowning, illness, or death by its mere presence or touch. Its origin, depiction, and …
Lady Midday is a Slavic folklore figure who appears at noon during hot summer days. According to legend, she appears as a cloud of dust and carries a scythe, sickle, or shears. Lady Midday is known for stopping people in the fields and engaging them in conversation or asking them difficult questions. She is also …
Koschei, also known as Koschei the Deathless, is a prominent figure in Eastern Slavic folklore. He is an evil sorcerer who possesses immortality and is often depicted as the main antagonist in various Russian fairy tales. According to legend, he is able to cheat death by hiding his soul in a needle, which is then …
Hiisi is a term that holds great significance in Finnish mythology and folklore. It is often used to refer to sacred locations and various types of mythological entities. Hiisi sites are commonly found near geographical features such as hills, forests, rocks, wells, and rugged terrains. In Finnish mythology, Hiisi is often portrayed as a powerful …
Domovoi is a mythical being that holds a special place in Slavic folklore and mythology. It is believed to be a household spirit that resides in the hearth or behind the stove of a Slavic home, protecting the inhabitants from harm. The Domovoi is known by different names in different Slavic countries, such as Domovoy …