EP45 Folklore of the Sea: Spooky spirit candles, soul-stealing Devils, clairvoyant cats and Davy Jones’ Locker
Explore the rich tapestry of Welsh maritime folklore on the Ghosts and Folklore of Wales podcast, hosted by author and folklore researcher Mark Rees. From eerie ghost stories to ancient superstitions, these tales offer a glimpse into the beliefs that once guided Welsh sailors through stormy seas.
In centuries past, seafarers departing from Wales faced unpredictable weather, treacherous waves, and the looming threat of malevolent forces lurking in the depths. Navigating these dangers required more than skill—it called for the wisdom of folklore. This podcast episode delves into these fascinating traditions, including:
- Cats with Clairvoyant Powers: Discover how feline folklore played a role in predicting the future.
- The Origin of “Davy Jones’ Locker”: Unearth the meaning behind this chilling nautical phrase.
- Ward Off Evil Spirits: Learn the superstitions sailors used to protect themselves from harm.
- The Devil at Sea: Hear how folklore depicted the Devil sailing the oceans in search of souls.
- Storm-Riding Ghosts: Tales of spirits gliding across white-capped waves during turbulent weather.
- Laverbread Lore: Explore the curious uses of “Welshman’s caviar,” celebrated by actor Richard Burton.
Whether you’re fascinated by maritime myths or intrigued by the supernatural, this episode offers a deep dive into the folklore of Wales’s rugged coastline.
Missed the last episode?
Did you miss last week’s story? Catch up on EP44 The Haunted Mansion; or, a Cardiff Ghost Story, where we explored the mysterious spirits haunting a Victorian house in Cardiff. For more spine-chilling episodes—from the Mari Lwyd to the Mabinogion—visit the Ghosts and Folklore of Wales podcast page and subscribe today.
Love folklore of the sea? Explore Mark Rees’s books!
If maritime folklore piques your interest, why not delve deeper into the captivating world of Welsh legends? Mark Rees has penned a series of books brimming with curious tales and peculiar characters, including The A-Z of Curious Wales.
These books uncover:
- Ancient Traditions and Myths: From druids to dragons.
- Historical Oddities: Like a Victorian ghost hunter and an inventor with a ray gun.
- Seasonal Folklore: Such as the Mari Lwyd, a decorated horse’s skull paraded during Christmas.
Explore more weird and wonderful stories from Wales that will delight folklore fans and curious minds alike. Visit the books page to discover the full collection and order your copies today.
Whether you’re a folklore enthusiast or an industry insider seeking inspiration, Mark Rees’s books provide a treasure trove of tales waiting to be uncovered.