Myths and legends from around the world share stories of amazing gods and goddesses with special powers and unique weapons. Who were these figures, and why did they matter to people in the past?
Stories also mention mythological creatures and mysterious ancient places. While historians, archaeologists, and scientists have confirmed some myths, many characters, creatures, and locations remain a mystery. Still, these myths continue to hold cultural and historical importance for many people.
In this section, we will explore some of the most interesting stories and step into the magical world of myths and legends.
A. Sutherland – AncientPages.com – Most civilizations of Mesoamerica have an old belief in the power of the “ceiba” tree. Mixtec, Aztec, Maya, and other cultures consider this tree sacred. Tree of Life, Izapa Stela 5. Image credit: James Q. Jacobs –
A. Sutherland – AncientPages.com – Among certain groups of the Maya of Yucatan, it was believed that the Bacabs — mythical figures in Mayan beliefs — were four brothers placed by the gods at the four corners of the world
A. Sutherland – AncientPages.com – In ancient Maya beliefs, Camazotz (Camoazotz) was a vampire bat god. Camazotz means “death bat” in the Quiché Maya language. Chinese cultures see the bat as a symbol of good luck, while Europeans often fear it
A. Sutherland – AncientPages.com – For centuries, the Irish mythological tradition based on stories of the Pagan Celts was transmitted verbally until monks began to write them down in the 12th century in the form of manuscripts. “Cú Chulainn Riding
Thalia Lightbringer – AncientPages.com – This Cherokee tale is interesting because it relates a philosophy of life which was practiced by many Native Americans. They used every part of the animal they hunted if possible, and showed respect for the life
Ellen Lloyd – AncientPages.com – The Hopi Indians’ encounter with Maasaw was very emotional and frightening. His physical appearance was so horrifying that many of the Hopi Indians ran. Some of the Hopi had the courage to stay because they
Thalia Lightbringer – AncientPages.com – Where did the Tuatha de Danann come from? Legends of these people resemble those of ancient Greek gods, goddesses and archaic heroes; Could there be a connection? Do the Irish owe more to the Greeks than
A. Sutherland – AncientPages.com – Modern city Abu Shahrain holds traces of one of the earliest and most sacred cities of the Sumerians – Eridu (E.RI.DU – ‘Home in the Faraway Built’). According to legend, it was the first city ever
Ellen Lloyd – AncientPages.com – Native Americans have wonderful legends of a powerful and magnificent Thunderbird that the Gods sent to protect humans from evil. When this huge, eagle-like bird soared through the skies, one could hear its mighty wings
A. Sutherland – AncientPages.com – Riding into battle, Odin was always accompanied by Sleipnir(or Sleipner), an amazing, eight-legged horse of supernatural strength. Odin also has other constant companions, namely two wolves: Geri (Greedy) and Freki (Ravenous), and two ravens, Munin (memory)
A. Sutherland – AncientPages.com – Ancient Sumer had a very complex pantheon of gods and goddesses, but four of these powerful figures played an important role because they were creators of everything. Enlil (EN.LIL – his name meant “lord of the
AncientPages.com – King Arthur is one of, if not the most legendary icons of medieval Britain. His popularity has lasted centuries, mostly thanks to the numerous incarnations of his story that pop up time and time again. Indeed, his is one
Ellen Lloyd – AncientPages.com – People have always believed in vampires. This very old belief was deeply held in the Celtic culture and very widespread in ancient Europe. People believed in the existence of the “undead” who harm after the
A. Sutherland – AncientPages.com – Thor was a very popular deity, particularly in Iceland and the western part of Norway; several complex rituals related to him existed, and when Christianity began to spread in these parts of Europe, it was
Ellen Lloyd – AncientPages.com – He kept the true purpose of his expedition confidential. Until this day many people still do not know what kind of inner force drove him on such a risky journey. Only he knew what had to
Ellen Lloyd – AncientPages.com – People who visit Scotland often ask where they can find the mysterious and beautiful village of Brigadoon. It’s a place where the passing of a century seems no longer than one night. The village is
