The historical center of the city of Odessa, which is the most important port city of Ukraine and also known as the “Pearl of the Black Sea”, has been included in the List of World Heritage in Danger by UNESCO. The announcement was made
Category: Culture
Juniper in Mythology and Folk Beliefs
Juniper, a coniferous tree of the genus Juniperus, is a species that can adapt to many climates. Therefore, it is possible to find some practices, myths and folk beliefs about juniper in many societies. Physical Characteristics of Juniper Tree The juniper tree, which can
Halloween-Like Traditions and the Origin of Halloween
Celebrated on October 31st every year, Halloween is seen as a secular tradition today despite its pagan roots. The common point of Halloween celebrations, which has become widespread in countries such as Russia, Turkey and Japan with the effect of globalization, is the theme
The Blood Oath Rites of the Scythians and Huns
The blood oath is a ritual, usually between two men, that provides a symbolic sense of attachment and eternal friendship. Blood oath rituals, common among nomadic peoples in ancient times, were also practiced in settled societies over time. Those who practice the blood oath
Mabon Excitement: Autumn Equinox Celebrated at Stonehenge
The historic site in England hosted the Mabon celebrations on the morning of September 23. Many people in the UK gathered at Stonehenge in the early hours of the day to watch the sunrise. Stonehenge, one of the most important cultural symbols of the
The Scariest Creatures in Anatolian Folklore
Mythological entities, which are a part of Anatolian folk culture, are indispensable elements of both fairy tales and folk literature. Anatolian folklore is very colorful as its roots go back to Old Turkish, Caucasian, Greek and Persian cultures. For this reason, there are many
Alkarısı: The Lilith of Turkic Mythology
An evil woman in red. She might as well be called a witch. Some also liken her to Adam’s first wife, Lilith. She is famous for killing babies and puerperal women. In this respect, it can be said that she is in opposition to
Artifacts and Museums in Ukraine in Danger due to War
Cultural heritage assets, historical sites, museums, monuments and artifacts are at risk of damage and theft in Russia-occupied Ukraine. The Russian occupation, which started on February 24, 2022 and is still continuing, also damages the art and cultural heritage in Ukraine. The recent evaluation
St. Patrick’s Day: First Parades After The Covid-19 Pandemic
Preparations begin for St. Patrick’s Day, one of Ireland’s most important national and cultural festivals. The parades will be held for the first time after the COVID-19 pandemic. The parades, which have not been held since 2019 due to COVID-19, will be re-organized this
Molybdomancy: A New Year’s Eve Tradition
Even though it coincides with different dates in different cultures, New Year’s Eve celebrations are the common heritage of almost all humanity. So much so that over time, many superstitions and interesting traditions have emerged about New Year’s Eve. Although eating grapes, drinking champagne,