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Posted on 08/27/202408/27/2024 by ALKEMYSTICA — Leave a comment

The Megalithic Fortress of Arwad – Syria

Arwad, an island city situated off the coast of Syria in the Mediterranean Sea, is renowned for its ancient megalithic fortress. A strategic stronghold which has withstood the ravages of time, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the architecture, cultural practices, and historical significance of ancient civilizations in the region.

Historical Background

Also known as Arvad in ancient texts, it was then named Árados in Greek, which was Latinized as Aradus. In Arabic, it became Arwad . It’s also known as Ruad Island.

It is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Syria and its origins date back to the Bronze Age, with the island being continuously inhabited since at least the 3rd millennium BCE. The fortress itself was constructed during the height of Arwad’s prominence, around the 1st millennium BCE, reflecting its strategic importance in ancient maritime trade and defense.

The island was settled in the 2nd millennium BC by the Phoenicians. Under their control, it became an independent kingdom probably called Jazirat (meaning “island”) or Aynook. The city has been cited as one of the first known examples of a republic in the world, in which the people, rather than a monarch, are described as sovereign.

It was a major city-state, and the Phoenicians, known for their seafaring prowess and commercial enterprises, established Arwad as a crucial port city. The island’s location, just off the Syrian coast, allowed it to control important maritime routes and engage in trade with various Mediterranean civilizations, including Egypt, Greece, and Rome.

The fortress was built during a period of heightened geopolitical tensions and conflicts. The city-state faced threats from neighboring powers, including the Assyrians, Babylonians, and later the Macedonians and Romans. The fortress’s construction was thus a response to these external pressures and a testament to Arwad’s strategic military planning.

“The King of Arwad dwelt in the wide sea and fixed his dwelling like a fish in immeasurable waters.” –Ashurbanipal, King of Assyria-

Arwad apparently received the favor of the Seleucid Kings of Syria, and enjoyed the right of asylum for political refugees. Also, in some documents in connection with other cities and rulers of the near East, it is mentioned to show favor to the Jews.

This was after Rome had begun to interfere in the affairs of Judea and Syria, and indicates that Arwad was still of considerable importance at the time.

It formed an excellent base for the Phoenician commercial operations, into both the hinterland as far as the Euphrates, and also to Egypt. It was not until Roman times that the island declined, losing its commercial power to Antaradus (Ṭarṭus).

Tartus or Tartous with over 160,000 inhabitants is today the second most important town on the Syrian coast after Latakia. It is situated on the Mediterranean Sea, opposite Arwad Island.

Tartus was founded in antiquity as Antaradus (Anti-Aradus or the town facing Aradus), as a Phoenician colony of Arwad/Aradus. It was rebuilt in 346 AD by Emperor Constantine the I and flourished during Roman and Byzantine times. It became a major Christian stronghold and it is claimed to have the first chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

In the 12^th and 13^th century AD, Crusaders occupied Tartus, then known as Tortosa, converting it into a fortress-town, and successfully defending it against attacks. It finally fell to the Arabs, who razed the walls, in 1302.

In November 1300, Jacques de Molay, last Grand Master of the Knights Templar, and Amaury de Lusignan, Lord of Tyre, attempted to occupy the former Templar stronghold of Tortosa.

A force of 600 men, of which the Templars supplied about 150, failed to establish itself in the town, although they were able to leave a garrison of 120 men on the Island of Ruad (Arwad), just off the coast.

Nearly forty of these men were still in prison in Cairo, Egypt, years later, where according to a former Genoese fellow prisoner, they died of starvation, having refused an offer of many riches and goods in return for apostatizing.

Tortosa was the last stand the Templars had on the mainland of Syria towards Arwad, which they kept for another decade.

From the beginning of the Ottoman conquest, the town declined in importance until its port was rejuvenated in the 20th century.

Today, there is a Templar castle and an Arab castle, both dating from the 13th century, still to be seen on Arwad, which is now an entirely Arab island dependent for its livelihood on the fishing industry. Arwad can be reached by boat from Tartus.

Architectural Features

The megalithic fortress stands out due to its impressive and sophisticated architectural features. The term “megalithic” refers to the use of large stone blocks in construction, which is evident in its massive walls and defensive structures.

These walls, which are up to 12 meters (40 feet) high and 5 meters (16 feet) wide, were designed to withstand both sieges and assaults. They provided strength, but also durability, allowing the fortress to endure over millennia.

The walls were built using large, finely cut stone blocks, many of which are polygonal in shape. This construction method was highly advanced for its time and reflects the skill and sophistication of the builders. They were equipped with towers and bastions at strategic points. These towers provided elevated vantage points for defenders and allowed for effective surveillance and defense of the fortress.

The bastions were designed to enfilade enemy troops, creating a crossfire that was highly effective in repelling attacks.

The fortress had multiple gates, each fortified and protected by complex gatehouses. The main gate was particularly elaborate, featuring a series of defensive barriers and traps designed to slow down and confuse attackers. This gate was flanked by two massive towers, each with arrow slits and defensive platforms.

Within the walls, the internal layout was organized for both residential and military purposes. The fortress contained living quarters for the garrison, administrative buildings, and storage facilities.

The design of the internal spaces reflected a high degree of organization and functionality, ensuring that the fortress could support a prolonged siege, if necessary.

Strategic Importance

The strategic location of Arwad’s fortress was central to its historical significance. The island’s position in the Mediterranean Sea provided it with several key advantages.

Phoenician Influence

The island was a center of Phoenician culture, known for its shipbuilding and trade networks. Some of the inscriptions and artifacts found on the island provide insight into the Phoenician language and religious practices.

Maritime Control

Arwad’s location allowed it to control important maritime routes. The fortress overlooked the sea lanes used by merchant ships traveling between the eastern coasts and the wider Mediterranean region. By controlling these routes, Arwad could exert influence over trade and commerce, and secure its position as a major port city.

Defense Against Invasion

The fortress was strategically designed to defend against maritime and land-based invasions. Its elevated position on the island made it difficult for invaders to approach and launch a successful attack. The combination of thick walls, defensive towers, and the surrounding sea, created a formidable barrier that protected the city from numerous sieges and assaults.

Economic and Political Power

Arwad’s control over maritime trade routes contributed to its economic prosperity. The fortress not only defended the city but also symbolized its political and economic power. The presence of such a strong defensive structure indicated the city’s wealth and its ability to project power regionally and beyond.

Ancient Harbor

Arwad’s strategic position made it an important maritime hub in antiquity. The island has remnants of an ancient harbor system, which underscores its significance as a port city and its role in trade and military operations across the Mediterranean.

Historical Significance

Arwad played a significant role during various historical periods, including the Persian and Roman eras. It was often a point of contention and a strategic asset due to its location and fortifications.

Cultural Continuity

The island has been continuously inhabited for thousands of years, and it has retained much of its ancient character. Even in modern times, the local population still engages in traditional practices that reflect the island’s long history.

Maritime Heritage

Arwad has a rich maritime history, with evidence of ancient shipbuilding techniques and naval activities. The presence of ancient shipyards and related infrastructure highlights its role in maritime trade and warfare.

These aspects of Arwad add depth to our understanding of its historical and cultural significance, making it a truly remarkable site with a rich heritage that extends beyond the well-known aspects of its megalithic fortifications.

The fortress holds significant historical value. It is a testament to the advanced engineering and architectural skills of ancient civilizations and reflects the broader cultural and political context of the time. Its design influenced subsequent fortifications in the region and contributed to the development of military architecture in the ancient Mediterranean world.

Excavations and studies of the fortress have provided important information about ancient construction techniques, defensive strategies, and the daily life of the inhabitants.

The insights gained from studying Arwad’s fortress contribute to our understanding of ancient civilizations, their military strategies, and their cultural practices.

As research and excavation continue, the fortress of Arwad will undoubtedly yield further revelations about its past and its impact on the ancient Mediterranean world.

What do you think about The Megalithic Fortress of Arwad and other Megalithic structures in the world? Let us know in the comment section below and share the post!!!

Video version here:

The Megalithic Fortress of Arwad – Syria

Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arwad

https://www.aramcoworld.com/Articles/January-2016/Arwad-Fortress-at-Sea

https://homsonline.com/EN/Citeis/Tartus.htm

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fall_of_Ruad

https://www.megalithicbuilders.com/asia/syria/arwad-arwad-wall

SOURCES:

Malcolm Barber, Trial of the Templars
Martin Bernal, Black Athena Writes Back (Durham: Duke University Press, 2001), 359.
Lawrence I Conrad, ‘The Conquest of Arwād: A Source-critical study in the historiography of the early medieval Near East’, in The Byzantine and early Islamic Near East: Papers of the First Workshop on Late Antiquity and Early Islam, edited by Averil Cameron and Lawrence I Conrad, Studies in late antiquity and early Islam, 1, vol. 1, Problems in the literary source material (Princeton: Darwin Press, 1992), 317–401.
Alain Demurger, The Last Templar
Hazlitt, The Classical Gazetteer, p.53.
Lebling, Robert W. 2016. “Arwad, Fortress at Sea”. Aramco World. January February 2016. Volume 67, no. 1. Pages 34–41.
Newman, Sharan (2006). Real History Behind the Templars. Berkley Publishing Group. ISBN 978-0-425-21533-3.
Jean Richard, Les Croisades
Sylvia Schein, “Gesta Dei per Mongolos”
Dave Eggers, Zeitoun
Krahmalkov, Charles R (2000). Phoenician-Punic dictionary. Peeters Publishers.

PICS:

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https://pixabay.com/illustrations/templar-knight-sword-medieval-8885310

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/knight-templar-knight-templar-8450835

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phoenicia#/media/File:Phoenician_trade_routes_(eng).svg

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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seleucid_Empire#/media/File:Seleucid-Empire_200bc.jpg

Posted on 08/13/202408/13/2024 by ALKEMYSTICA — Leave a comment

La Coulobre – Legend of a Winged Creature in European Folklore

La Coulobre, often translated as “dragon” or “serpent,” is central to the legend associated with the village of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, southern France, with a cluzeau (a type of well or spring) called “the hole of La Coulobre”, still visible along the banks of the Dordogne river.

The village in which the spring is located was called “Vallis Clausa” (“closed valley”) in Latin, because of its topographical position. This in time became “Vaucluse”, from which the spring takes its name. In the Provençal dialect is called Fònt de Vauclusa, “the spring of the closed valley.”

According to local folklore, La Coulobre was a fearsome dragon that terrorized the region. This malevolent creature, described in various accounts as having a serpentine body and a menacing demeanor, was said to be both a physical and symbolic representation of chaos and destruction.

It was a winged creature, often depicted as a giant salamander, with a fetid breath. It was feared for its ability to terrorize the countryside, devouring young children and spreading disease.

She coupled with dragons that then abandoned her, forcing her to raise the small black salamanders to which she gave birth, on her own . She was desperate for a new husband and a father for her children, but her ugliness repulsed all suitors.

The Dragon’s Reign of Terror

The legend describes La Coulobre as a creature of immense power and malevolence. It was said to reside in the dark depths of the spring’s subterranean river system, emerging only to wreak havoc on the nearby inhabitants.

The dragon’s presence was marked by mysterious and disastrous events—cattle would disappear, crops would not grow, and the land would suffer from unnatural droughts. The Fontaine de Vaucluse, with its powerful flow and enigmatic depths, was believed to be La Coulobre’s lair.

The people of Vaucluse lived in constant fear of her. The dragon’s wrath was thought to be linked to the mysterious and unpredictable nature of the spring itself. The locals believed that the beast’s influence extended over the spring, controlling its flow and using it as a means to assert its dominance.

The Heroic Struggle

The legend takes a dramatic turn with the arrival of a heroic figure determined to vanquish La Coulobre and bring peace to the region. This hero is often depicted as a brave knight or a noble warrior, who, armed with courage and skills, embarks on a perilous quest to confront the dragon.

The hero’s journey is fraught with challenges, as he navigates the treacherous terrain of the Fontaine de Vaucluse, and delves into the dark and labyrinthine passages of the spring.

The confrontation between the hero and La Coulobre is the climax of the legend. The battle is described in vivid and dramatic terms, with the hero eventually emerging victorious. The dragon, defeated and slain, is said to have been driven away or killed, with its body either sinking into the depths of the spring or being cast out to prevent any further menace.

With La Coulobre vanquished, the region was said to experience a period of restoration and peace. The Fontaine de Vaucluse, once associated with fear and destruction, was now seen as a symbol of renewal and hope.

The spring continued to flow, but its waters were no longer tainted by the dragon’s malevolent influence. The land flourished, crops grew, and the village thrived.

Saint Véran and La Coulobre

A parallel legend tells that Saint Véran, bishop of Cavaillon, rid the Sorgue of a horrible Drac, a devil or dragon, La Coulobre, striking it down with his staff. This event is commemorated by a sculpture on the church square, depicting Saint Véran killing the beast.

The Sorgue is a river in Southeastern France. Its source is near the town of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. It is the biggest spring in France and the fifth biggest in the world.

Saint Veranus of Cavaillon (died c. 590) was a French Saint, with a cultus in Italy.

Gregory of Tours writes of miracles performed by Veranus, including the expulsion of a dragon. He is also remembered as a leader in charitable works and as a patron of local monasteries, not only in France but also in Italy, particularly in the city of Albenga, where he was instrumental in the conversion of the people to Christianity.

There are various theories about the name La Coulobre:

It could be derived from the Latin word coluber (snake).

The Drac is a Ligurian divinity of tumultuous waters and the Coulobre owes its name to two Celto-Ligurian roots: Kal (stone) and Briga (hill). This is the cliff overlooking the spring which still holds the Vache d’Or (Golden Cow), the site of an ancient pastoral religion celebrating the strength and form of water and stone.

In antiquity it was a place of ritual offerings.

Petrarch’s Encounter

In the 15th century, the Italian poet Petrarch (Petrarca), reportedly encountered La Coulobre while walking along the Sorgue river with his beloved Laure.

The monster’s pestilential breath allegedly killed Laure, and Petrarch never recovered from the encounter.

Historical and Geological Background

The Fontaine de Vaucluse is a karst spring, where the water emerges from a subterranean river system.

The sheer volume of water, which can vary dramatically with the seasons, contributes to the spring’s impressive flow.

The site is nestled in a picturesque valley and is surrounded by lush greenery and towering cliffs, adding to its mystique.

This natural wonder has long been a source of inspiration and intrigue, both scientifically and culturally. Its unique features and the surrounding landscape have made it a significant location for geological study and artistic representation. But it is the legend of La Coulobre that truly enriches its lore.

In a nearby region, an Occitan legend tells of a huge winged reptile with an enormous mouth, horns, ears and claws that ended up in a druid’s hiding spot. It is said that the creature was so large that it attacked people and cattle, abducting them to devour them in its cave.

It was said that La Coulobre’s colossal force was behind the creation of the dangerous passage known as the Saut de la Gratusse, where whirlpools and strong currents led many a sailor to their untimely death.

Tale of the Nymph

A different tale recounts the story of a minstrel who fell asleep on the way to the spring and saw a nymph appear. She led him to the edge of the spring, which opened to let them descend to a meadow strewn with supernatural flowers.

The nymph showed seven diamonds to the minstrel. By lifting one of them, she made a powerful jet of water gush out. “Here,” she said, “is the secret of the spring of which I am the guardian. To make it swell I remove the diamonds. With the seventh, the water reaches the fig tree, which drinks only once a year.”

Then, she woke up the minstrel and disappeared.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance

The legend of La Coulobre and the Fontaine de Vaucluse is more than just a local story – it reflects broader cultural and symbolic themes.

Dragons and serpents are common motifs in mythology across various cultures, often representing chaos, danger or evil that must be overcome by a hero.

In French folklore, La Coulobre is part of a tradition of dragon legends that emphasize the importance of courage and the role of heroic figures in restoring balance.

These stories often serve as allegories for real-life struggles, highlighting the virtues of bravery, perseverance, and moral integrity.

The Fontaine de Vaucluse, with its mysterious and powerful spring, provides a fitting backdrop for such a narrative.

Moreover, it has become a symbol of the natural beauty and mystical allure of the region. The spring’s dramatic flow and the surrounding landscape evoke a sense of wonder and reverence, enhancing the impact of the story.

The Legacy of the Legend

Today, La Coulobre continues to captivate the imagination of visitors and locals alike.

The Fontaine de Vaucluse remains a popular destination for those seeking to experience its natural beauty and to explore the rich cultural heritage associated with it.

The legend has been preserved through various forms of storytelling, including literature, art, and local traditions.

It also highlights the enduring power of folklore to shape our understanding of natural landscapes. The story of the dragon and the hero reflects the human desire to find meaning in the natural world and its intricate relationship with it.

The legend underscores the idea that natural phenomena, such as springs and rivers, are not just physical entities, but also vessels of deeper symbolic meanings, standing as a testament to this interplay between the natural and the mythological.

The legend of La Coulobre also serves as a potent symbol of the triumph of good over evil. The hero’s victory over the dragon represents the overcoming of darkness and chaos, restoring order and harmony to the land.

This narrative resonates with timeless themes found in folklore and mythology, illustrating the universal struggle between heroic valor and destructive forces.

This essay provides a comprehensive look at the Legend of La Coulobre and its significance, exploring both the mythical narrative and its cultural impact.

It is a fascinating and eerie figure, symbolizing the power of myth, and offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of cultural and natural heritage that defines the region and European folklore.

What do you think of the legend of La Coulobre, dragons and winged creatures? Let us know in the comment section and share the post!!!

Video version here:

La Coulobre – Legend of a Winged Creature in European Folklore

Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

https://www.grandsudinsolite.fr/1013–the-legend-of-la-coulobr e.html

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fontaine_de_Vaucluse_(spring)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veranus_of_Cavaillon

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sorgue

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petrarch

PICS:

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https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Brooklyn_Museum_-_Fontaine_de_Vaucluse_-_Paul_Huet.jpg

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Posted on 08/05/202408/05/2024 by ALKEMYSTICA — Leave a comment

The Labyrinth – Myths and Symbolism

The labyrinth, a symbol of intricate design and profound meaning, has captivated human imagination for millennia. Found in various cultures across the globe, from ancient civilizations to modern interpretations, the labyrinth represents a journey of transformation, a metaphorical path that intertwines myth, symbolism, and human experience. In this article, we delve into the origins, myths, and deep symbolism associated with the labyrinth, seeking to unravel its mysteries and understand its enduring significance.

Origins and Historical Context

The labyrinth’s origins can be traced back to antiquity, with evidence of labyrinthine patterns found in diverse cultures including ancient Greece, Egypt, India, and Mesoamerica.

The theme of the labyrinth leading to one’s destiny is most clearly illustrated in one of the best-known stories from Greek mythology: Theseus and the Minotaur.

The word Labyrinth comes from the Greek labyrinthos and describes any maze-like structure. A labyrinth is a single-path, non-branching route leading to the center and back out, making it easier to navigate.

A maze is a complex branching puzzle with multiple paths and directions. Even so, the terms labyrinth and maze are often used interchangeably.

The term “labyrinth” has come to denote any unicursal maze, regardless of shape. Socrates described a labyrinthine argument as one where the path seems to loop back to the start, reflecting the idea of a complex but navigable route.

Although early Cretan coins sometimes feature multicursal patterns, the unicursal seven-course “Classical” design became associated with the Labyrinth on coins as early as 430 BC.

This design was widely used to symbolize the Labyrinth, even though historical and literary accounts suggest the Minotaur was confined in a complex branching maze. Despite increasingly elaborate designs, visual representations of the Labyrinth from Roman times through the Renaissance are predominantly unicursal. Branching mazes were reintroduced with the rise in popularity of garden mazes during the Renaissance.

The labyrinth/maze, then, may have served to help one find their mystical path by purposefully removing one from the common understanding of linear time and direction between two points. As one traveled through the labyrinth, one would become increasingly lost in reference to the world outside and, possibly, would unexpectedly discover one’s true path in life.

Labyrinths have appeared in various forms, such as designs on pottery and basketry, body art, and engravings on cave or church walls. The Romans created many decorative labyrinths in tile or mosaic, often large enough to be walked. Historically, labyrinths have been used for both group rituals and personal meditation.

Ancient Labyrinths

Pliny the Elder’s Natural History mentions four ancient labyrinths: the Cretan Labyrinth, an Egyptian Labyrinth, a Labyrinth on Lemnos, and an Italian Labyrinth.

The etymology of the word is linked to the Minoan labrys, “double axe”, the symbol of the Minoan mother goddess of Crete and royal authority, although the actual word is Lydian in origin, and most likely came to Crete from Anatolia through trade.

This connection supports the theory that the labyrinth originally referred to the Minoan royal palace in Crete, translating to “palace of the double-axe.” The term “-inthos” may mean “place,” as seen in names like Corinth. Symbols associated with the double-axe were found in the Minoan palace, often linked with female deities. In classical Greece, priests at Delphi were known as Labryades, or “men of the double axe.”

Greek mythology does not mention a specific deity presiding over the Labyrinth, although the goddess Despoine from Arcadian cults might have been associated with labyrinthine themes.

This figure might have been linked to a cult that influenced later Eleusinian mysteries.

The labyrinth of Knossos – Cretan Labyrinth

Knossos, in Crete, has long been suspected to be the site of the most famous labyrinth in history.

Researchers discovered bull motifs and depictions of a labrys, suggesting connections to the labyrinth. This association with the Minotaur myth has become a popular legend.

It’s the story of Theseus and the Minotaur. This labyrinth was designed by Daedalus for King Minos of Knossos on Crete to contain the ferocious half-man/half-bull known as the Minotaur, born from Queen Pasiphae’s cursed union with a bull.

It was an elaborate structure with winding passages and dead ends intended to confuse and trap the beast. Daedalus engineered the labyrinth so intricately that he himself had difficulty escaping after its completion.

Every year, seven young men & maidens were sent from Athens to Crete and then released into the labyrinth to be eaten by the Minotaur as a tribute.

According to the myth, Theseus, prince of Athens, ventured into the labyrinth with the aid of Ariadne, daughter of King Minos, who provided him with a ball of thread (the “Ariadne’s thread”) to navigate the maze.

Theseus successfully slew the Minotaur and found his way out using the thread, thus freeing Athens from the annual offering.

The Labyrinth of Egypt at Hawara

In Egypt, labyrinthine structures were associated with the complex and cyclical journey of the sun god Ra during the night, symbolizing death and rebirth.

One labyrinth stood near the foot of the Pyramid of Amenemhat the III at Hawara. It may have been a collection of funerary temples such as the ones that are commonly found near Egyptian pyramids.

The first major historian to discuss the labyrinth was the Greek author Herodotus, who, in his Histories, wrote that the structure surpassed the greatness of even the Egyptian Pyramids:

“The Egyptians made a labyrinth which surpasses even the pyramids. We learned through conversation with the Egyptian caretakers about the labyrinth’s underground chambers; they would by no means show them, as they were, they said, the burial vaults of the kings who first built this labyrinth, and of the sacred crocodiles…”

Diodorus Siculus also furthered the claim that the Egyptian labyrinth inspired Daedalus to build the Cretan labyrinth for King Minos.

Pliny the Elder , a Roman author and naturalist, described the structure in his Naturalis Historia, writing:

“There is still in Egypt a labyrinth which was the first constructed, 3,600 years ago. Many assert that it was a building consecrated to the Sun, an opinion which mostly prevails”

It is believed that the labyrinth at Hawara mirrored the afterlife. There were 42 halls throughout the structure which correspond to the Forty-Two Judges who preside over the fate of one’s soul, along with the gods Osiris, Thoth, Anubis, and Ma’at, at the final judgment in the Hall of Truth.

The labyrinth, then, could have been constructed to lead one through a confusing maze – much like the landscape of the afterlife described in the Pyramid Texts, Coffin Texts, and the Egyptian Book of the Dead – to lead one toward an enlightened state.

Following the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the ruins of the labyrinth were quarried for stone and after most of the stones had been carted away, the location of the structure was gradually forgotten.

So great was the site as a source of building materials that a small town grew up around the ruins, by the oasis of Faiyum.

There have been many other labyrinths around the world since ancient times from the structure built in Italy as part of the tomb of an Etruscan king, to those of an island in modern-day Russia.

Labyrinths were once part of the mortuary rituals of Britain, Ireland, and Scotland. They constantly reappear in different forms at different stages in the evolution of Celtic culture and some of them are earlier than the Minoan labyrinths.

The labyrinth as an idea is closely related to the knot: the line that winds all around a design. The difference is that, in a knotwork design, the line has no beginning and no end while, in a labyrinth, there is usually a starting point and a goal.

Both symbolize journeys. This might be a particular adventure or the overall unfolding of life itself. Labyrinths therefore form a visual counterpart to the epic folk-tale which often consists of a long and convoluted journey with episodes that repeat and double back on themselves.

A journey to the center of the self and out again and, in this way, the ancient symbol emerges as a tool for self-exploration and healing.

The Indian mandala is a geometric configuration of symbols and may reflect the labyrinth’s intricate paths, symbolizing the wholeness and unity of the universe.

It can be used to establish a sacred space and as an aid to meditation and trance induction.

A mandala called yantra takes the form of a square with four gates containing a circle with a center point.

A mandala can also represent the entire universe, which is traditionally depicted with Mount Meru as the axis mundi in the center, surrounded by the continents.

Mandalas often have radial balance, meaning they look the same after some rotation by a partial turn.

In the Rigveda, the various books progress along the same lines as a labyrinth, where one travels a mystical path alone to eventually merge one’s inner journey with the outer world.

In medieval Christian culture, labyrinths were integrated into the floors of cathedrals such as Chartres in France, serving as a metaphorical pilgrimage for believers. It was built between 1215 and 1221, making it the largest church labyrinth ever constructed during the Middle Ages.

The labyrinth also embodies a multitude of symbolic meanings that resonate deeply with the human experience:

Journey and Transformation: At its core, the labyrinth represents a journey of self-discovery and transformation. The act of navigating its twists and turns mirrors life’s complexities, challenges, and the search for meaning. Each step taken within the labyrinth symbolizes progress, introspection, and personal growth.

Unity of Paths: Unlike a maze, which is designed to confuse and challenge, the labyrinth has a single, non-branching path that leads to the center and back out again. This symbolizes the unity of all paths and the interconnectedness of life’s journey.

It teaches that despite different routes and experiences, there is a destination and purpose.

Cycles of Life: The labyrinth’s circular or spiral design mirrors the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth. It represents the eternal journey of birth, growth, death and renewal found in nature, seasons, and the cosmos. In this way, the labyrinth becomes a symbol of continuity and the eternal rhythm of existence.

Mystical Pilgrimage: Many cultures incorporate labyrinths into personal practices as a form of meditation and pilgrimage. Walking the labyrinth path becomes a metaphorical journey towards enlightenment, wisdom and divine union. The process encourages mindfulness, reflection and communion with the sacred.

Psychological Exploration: The labyrinth can be seen as the representation of the mind and the process of integrating one’s conscious and unconscious aspects to achieve psychological wholeness.

Therapeutic Practices: Labyrinths are increasingly used in therapeutic settings as tools for stress reduction, meditation, and reflection. Walking the labyrinth path fosters mindfulness, relaxation, and emotional healing, providing individuals with a tangible way to explore their inner landscapes.

Personal Change: The labyrinth in the Greek myth serves as the vehicle for Theseus’ transformation from a youth to a king. He must enter a maze no one knows how to navigate, slay a monster, and return to the world he knows. The labyrinth presented him with the opportunity to change and grow but, like many people, Theseus resisted that opportunity until change was forced upon him.

Occult Significance: Prehistoric labyrinths likely served as traps for evil spirits or paths for ritual dances. In medieval times, the labyrinth symbolized a mystical journey with a defined center (representing God) and a single entrance (symbolizing birth).

The labyrinth, with its rich tapestry of myths and profound symbolism, continues to captivate and inspire humanity.

Its enduring presence across cultures underscores its universal appeal and relevance, offering us a timeless symbol to navigate the complexities of existence and discover deeper truths within ourselves and the world around us.

In unraveling the myths and symbolism of the labyrinth, we unravel not just a physical maze but a symbolic journey that speaks to the essence of what it means to be human—a journey of discovery, transformation, and the eternal quest for meaning.

What do you think about the Labyrinth, its myths and symbolism? Let us know in the comment section and share the post!!!

Video version here:

The Labyrinth – Myths and Symbolism

Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

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https://www.ashmolean.org/article/myths-of-the-la byrinth

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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labyrinth_of_E gypt

https://www.labyrinthpark.gr/en/history-of-labyrin th

https://www.worldhistory.org/Labyr inth

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mand ala

https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/39 738

https://www.cathedrale-chartres.org/en/cathedrale/monument/the-labyrin th

https://www.mazemaker.com/a bout

https://www.geomanc y.org

http://www.labyrinth-enterprises .com/

https://blogmymaze.wordpre ss.com

REFERENCES:

Hermann Kern, Through the Labyrinth, ed. Robert Ferré and Jeff Saward, Prestel, 2000, ISBN 3-7913-2144-7. (This is an English translation of Kern’s original German monograph Labyrinthe published by Prestel in 1982.)

Lauren Artress, Walking a Sacred Path: Rediscovering the Labyrinth as a Spiritual Practice, Penguin Books, 1995, ISBN 1-57322-007-8.

Lauren Artress, The Sacred Path Companion: A Guide to Walking the Labyrinth to Heal and Transform, Penguin Books, 2006, ISBN 1-59448-182-2.

Doob, Penelope Reed (1992). The Idea of the Labyrinth: from Classical Antiquity through the Middle Ages. Ithaca: Cornell University Press. ISBN 0-80142-393-7.

Herodotus, The Histories, Newly translated and with an introduction by Aubrey de Sélincourt, Harmondsworth, England, Penguin Books, 1965.

Karl Kerenyi, Dionysos: Archetypal Image of Indestructible Life, Princeton University Press, 1976.

Helmut Jaskolski, The Labyrinth: Symbol of Fear, Rebirth and Liberation, Shambala, 1997.

Adrian Fisher & Georg Gerster, The Art of the Maze, Weidenfeld & Nicolson, 1990. ISBN 0-297-83027-9.

Jeff Saward, Labyrinths and Mazes, Gaia Books Ltd, 2003, ISBN 1-85675-183-X.

Jeff Saward, Magical Paths, Mitchell Beazley, 2002, ISBN 1-84000-573-4.

W. H. Matthews, Mazes and Labyrinths: Their History and Development, Longmans, Green & Co., 1922. Includes bibliography. Dover Publications reprint, 1970, ISBN 0-486-22614-X.

Andrew Stewart, One Hundred Greek Sculptors: Their Careers and Extant Works.

Henning Eichberg, “Racing in the labyrinth? About some inner contradictions of running.” In: Athletics, Society & Identity. Imeros, Journal for Culture and Technology, 5 (2005): 1. Athen: Foundation of the Hellenic World, 169–192.

Edward Hays, The Lenten Labyrinth: Daily Reflections for the Journey of Lent, Forest of Peace Publishing, 1994.

Carl Schuster and Edmund Carpenter, Patterns that Connect: Social Symbolism in Ancient & Tribal Art, Harry N. Abrams, NY, 1996.

Ettore Selli, Labirinti Vegetali, la guida completa alle architetture verdi dei cinque continenti, Ed. Pendragon, 2020; ISBN 9788833642222

Bulfinch,T. Bullfinch’s Mythology. The Modern Library, 2010.

Castleden, R. The Element Encyclopedia of the Celts. Harper Collins Publishers Ltd, 2013.

Diodorus Siculus. Diodorus Siculus’ Histories. Harvard University Press, 1939.

Hamilton, E. Greek Mythology. Easton Press, 1968.

Jung, C. The Portable Carl Jung. Penguin Classics, 1992.

Michailidou, A. Knossos – A Complete Guide to the Palace of Minos. Ekdotike Athenon, 2004.

Pliny. Pliny’s Natural History. Harvard University Press, 1938.

Rees, A. & B. Celtic Heritage: Ancient Tradition in Ireland and Wales. Thames & Hudson, 1961.

Strabo. Strabo’s Geography. Harvard University Press, 1928.

The Ancient Egyptian Labyrinth by Larry Orcutt

The Labyrinth: Archetype of Transformation for Global Healing by Annette Reynolds

Verner, M. The Pyramids: The Mystery, Culture, and Science of Egypt’s Great Monuments. Grove Press, 2002.

Waterfield, R. Herodotus: The Histories – A new translation by Robin Waterfield. Oxford University Press, 2006.

Wilkinson,R. H. The Complete Temples of Ancient Egypt. Thames & Hudson, 2000.

PICS

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Posted on 07/22/202407/22/2024 by ALKEMYSTICA — Leave a comment

Symbolic and Occult meanings of Horns

Exploring the symbolic and occult meanings of horns involves delving into various cultural, historical, and mythological contexts where they have played significant roles. This essay will examine how horns have been perceived across different civilizations, their symbolic representations, and their deeper, occult meanings in various belief systems and mythologies.

Beyond their biological function, horns have been imbued with symbolic meanings that transcend the natural world. Across cultures, horns have been associated with power, fertility, divinity, and protection. In occult traditions, they hold esoteric significance, often linking the earthly with the unearthly realms.

Horns are an animal’s weapon, so it follows that as a symbol they function as representing this aspect. They are also the power and dignity of the divinity, and horned gods usually represent warriors and lords of animals.

Horns can have both positive and negative symbolic meanings. They can represent:

Strength and aggressiveness, as an animal’s weapon.
Divinity: In many cultures, powerful deities or divine beings are depicted with horns to emphasize their authority over earthly matters and spiritual realms. The size and shape of horns can imply the magnitude of their power.
Salvation and immortality: Horns are durable, so they can represent redemption and eternal life.
Protection and asylum: Deities or beings depicted with horns may symbolize guardianship and protection. They are seen as defenders who offer sanctuary and safeguard individuals or communities from harm.
Madness and rage: Horns are often associated with violence, especially from a charging animal.
Masculine representation: Horns can be a phallic symbol.
Beauty, strength, and wisdom: Horns can be considered beautiful due to their graceful curves and intricate shapes. They are often associated with animals renowned for their physical strength and endurance. They may also represent an elevated consciousness or a connection to higher realms of understanding, emphasizing wisdom gained through introspection and divine revelation.
Death and unordered passions: Horned beings may be guardians or guides of the underworld, where they oversee the transition of souls or judge the deceased. Horns are often linked to animals known for their wild and untamed nature, such as bulls or rams.
Victory: The raised horn is a common biblical symbol, especially of being rescued from oppression.
In ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece, horns were symbols of gods and goddesses. The Mesopotamian bull-man Enkidu. The Egyptian goddess Hathor, who was depicted with horns, symbolizing her nurturing and protective aspects.

In Judeo-Christian traditions, horns take on many meanings.

Keren is a Hebrew word whose primary meaning is horn. It’s sometimes used to refer to the shofar, an instrument made from a ram’s horn used ceremonially in Jewish rituals, symbolizing mystical awakening and repentance. It also refers to the legal category of damage inflicted by an animal’s horn.

Keren also means “ray, or something projected from a point.”
An additional meaning of Keren is “fund or capital.”
For the meaning “fund”, some scholars provide this etymology to be borrowed from Akkadian qerenu (heap, stack or threshing floor.)

Keren as horn derives from the Hebrew haruv. The Greeks had a word for carob – keration, literally meaning “little horn”, from keras, horn. This eventually led to the English word carat and modern Italian corna.

In Italy, when confronted with unfortunate events, or simply when these events are mentioned, the sign of the horns may be given to ward off further bad luck. It is also used traditionally to ward off the “evil eye” (malocchio).

Horns are also associated with the devil in Christian iconography, portraying evil and temptation.

When the Israelites started worshipping idols in the shape of bulls, their religious authority condemned these acts as they believed that there was only one true god. Hence horns started to represent something shunned upon or evil.

In Islam, Dhu al-Qarnayn, “The Two-Horned One”, appears in the Qur’an as one who travels to the east and west and sets up a barrier between a certain people and Gog and Magog.

The Arabian word qarn means both “horn” and “period” or “century”.

Dhu al-Qarnayn has mostly been identified by Western and traditional Muslim scholars as Alexander the Great, others have argued in favour of him being actually Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Achaemenid Empire and conqueror of Persia and Babylon.

In Hinduism, the horned god Shiva is both a destroyer and a creator, embodying cosmic balance.

In Hatha Yoga, a hand gesture similar to horns is known as Apana Mudra, and it’s believed to rejuvenate the body. In Indian classical dance forms, it symbolizes the lion. In Ayurveda they use deer horns as medicine.

In Buddhism, the Karana Mudrā is seen as a gesture to expel demons, remove negative energy, and ward off evil. It is commonly found on depictions of Gautama Buddha. Tibetan Buddhism features wrathful deities adorned with skulls and horns, signifying their fierce protective powers.

Horns are also found on the Song dynasty statue of Laozi, the founder of Taoism in China. In Chinese culture, ox horns symbolize strength and resilience.

It’s interesting to note the similar etymology and sound of horn, keren, qerenu, keras, corna, qarn, karana…it’s a piece of the puzzle to support the theory of an ancient worldwide body of knowledge and connection.

Symbolic Meanings of Horns

Power and Authority

Horns often symbolize power and authority. In ancient times, rulers wore horned crowns or helmets to signify their leadership and divine right to rule. This symbolism persists in modern contexts, where horns denote strength and dominance.

Fertility and Vitality

Throughout history, horns have been linked to fertility and vitality due to their association with animals like bulls and goats. In agricultural societies, horned gods and goddesses were revered for their ability to ensure abundant harvests and animal fertility.

Protection and Defense

Horns are also symbols of protection and defense. In many cultures, amulets and talismans featuring horn motifs were believed to ward off evil spirits and provide protection. Horned animals like the bull were seen as guardians of their herds.

Transformation and Spirituality

In occult traditions, horns represent transformation and awakening. The Horned God archetype, found in various pagan traditions, symbolizes the cycles of life, death, and rebirth. Horned deities are often associated with the wilderness and the untamed aspects of nature.

Occult Meanings of Horns

Esoteric Symbolism

In occultism, horns have esoteric meanings related to enlightenment and occult knowledge. They symbolize the ability to transcend earthly limitations and connect with higher realms of consciousness.

Ritualistic Uses

Horns are used in occult practices to invoke unearthly forces and entities. Horned masks and headdresses are worn in ceremonial rituals to channel specific energies or deities and embrace the darker aspects of human nature to undergo a metamorphosis through rituals.

Alchemical Symbolism

In alchemy, horns symbolize the process of transformation and purification. The horned symbol represents the union of opposites and the synthesis of mystical and material elements. Alchemists sought to achieve enlightenment and immortality also through the symbolic transformation represented by horns.

Mythological meaning of Horns

The unicorn is a legendary creature that has been described since antiquity as a beast with a single large, pointed, spiraling horn projecting from its forehead.

The horn itself and the substance it was made of was called alicorn, and it was believed that the horn held magical and medicinal properties.

Dark meanings of Horns

The symbolism of horns also encompasses darker and more obscure meanings, often delving into themes of rebellion, forbidden knowledge, and the primal instincts of humanity. These interpretations are found in various occult traditions and mythologies where horns are associated with entities and deities considered malevolent or adversary.

Rebellion and Non-Conformity

In occult and esoteric contexts, horns can symbolize rebellion against established norms and authority. Entities or beings depicted with horns, such as demons or rebellious gods, embody a defiance of conventional rules and structures. They represent a primal, untamed aspect of human nature that seeks to challenge and transcend limitations.

The horned god archetype, such as Pan or Cernunnos in pagan traditions, is often depicted as a mediator between the human and supernatural worlds, offering knowledge that challenges conventional understanding.

Malevolence and Darkness

Horned creatures like the Krampus in Alpine folklore or various demonic beings in mythologies are feared symbols of darkness and chaos.

Primal Instincts and Wild Nature

Animals with horns are often associated with raw power, aggression, and sexual potency. In occultism, this primal energy can be harnessed for both creative and destructive purposes, reflecting the dualistic nature of horns as symbols of both life-giving fertility and dangerous aggression.

Radiant meanings of Horns

While horns can indeed carry darker and more ambiguous meanings in certain contexts, they also hold positive and benevolent symbolism across various cultures. These interpretations often highlight qualities such as strength, protection, fertility, and mystical connection.

Strength and Power

Some of the most prominent positive symbolic meanings of horns are strength and power. In many cultures, horns symbolize the strength to overcome challenges and obstacles.

Protection and Defense

In ancient times, horns adorned helmets and shields, symbolizing the defensive capabilities of warriors. Amulets and talismans featuring horn motifs were believed to ward off evil entities and provide protection to the wearer.

Fertility and Abundance

In agricultural societies, horns are symbols of fertility and abundance. Horned gods and goddesses were invoked to bless fields and ensure prosperity in fertility rituals and ceremonies.

Connection to Nature and the Divine

Horns are often seen as symbols of a connection to nature and the divine. Animals with horns are viewed as intermediaries between the earthly and unearthly realms, embodying the raw forces of nature and the wisdom of the natural world.

Positive Masculine Energy

The strength, protection, and vitality associated with horned animals and deities are often seen as embodiments of positive masculine attributes such as courage, resilience, and leadership.

Are there any hidden meanings in the symbolism of horns?

The symbolism of horns often carries hidden or deeper meanings that go beyond their more obvious interpretations.

Dualistic Nature

One hidden meaning of horn symbolism is its dualistic nature. Horns can simultaneously represent both positive and negative qualities, such as strength and aggression, protection and danger, fertility and untamed instincts. This duality reflects the complex and contradictory aspects of human nature and the universe itself, emphasizing the interconnectedness of opposites.

Gateway to Other Realms

In occult and mystical traditions, horns are sometimes seen as symbolic gateways or portals to other realms of existence. Horned deities and higher beings are believed to possess the ability to traverse between the physical world and other dimensions, acting as intermediaries or guides for those seeking deeper mystical knowledge and experiences.

Integration of Mystical and Physical Energies

In esoteric practices, horns represent the union of divine and earthly forces, embodying the harmonious balance between enlightenment and material existence.

Transformation and Evolution

Horns symbolize transformation and evolution, both on a personal and cosmic level. They represent the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth, as well as the continuous process of enlightenment. Horned deities and mythological figures often undergo symbolic transformations, symbolizing the evolution of consciousness and the pursuit of higher wisdom.

Hidden Knowledge and Mysteries

Horns can be symbols of hidden knowledge and mysteries that lie beyond ordinary perception. In occult traditions, horned symbols are associated with esoteric teachings, arcane wisdom, and secret societies that seek to uncover deeper truths about existence and the universe.

The symbolic and occult meanings of horns underscore their enduring significance in human culture, reflecting universal themes of power, fertility, protection, and transcendence. As humanity continues to evolve, so too will the interpretations and applications of horn symbolism, resonating across time and cultures as a testament to our collective quest for meaning and connection to the divine.

What do you think about the Symbolism and Meanings of Horns? Let us know in the comment section and share the post!!!

Video version here:

Symbolic and Occult meanings of Horns

Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

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Posted on 07/07/202407/07/2024 by ALKEMYSTICA — Leave a comment

Lost Lands and Phantom Islands: Exploring the Mysteries of Earth’s Vanishing Geographies

Lost Lands and Phantom Islands - Earth's Vanishing Geographies

The appeal of lost lands and phantom islands has captivated human imagination for centuries. These geographical enigmas, often mentioned in myths, legends, and early navigational charts, evoke a sense of mystery and adventure. They represent places that once appeared on maps or in tales, but have since eluded discovery or been debunked as fictional. This research delves into the fascinating realms of lost lands and phantom islands, exploring their origins, cultural significance, and the explanations behind their existence.

Origins and Historical Accounts

Lost lands and phantom islands have their origins in ancient cartography and folklore, where accounts of distant and mysterious lands fueled the imaginations of explorers and scholars alike. One of the most famous examples is Atlantis, the mythical island first mentioned by Plato in his dialogues. Plato described Atlantis as an advanced civilization that sank into the sea in a single day and night, sparking countless theories and expeditions in search of its remains.

In medieval times, maps depicted fantastical islands like Thule, believed to be the northernmost land reachable by ancient voyagers. Thule and similar islands represented the edge of the known world, beyond which mystery and the great unknown where located. These tales often intertwined with religious beliefs and cosmological ideas, shaping the worldview of societies.

Exploration and Encounters

During the Age of Exploration, European sailors encountered numerous phantom islands that appeared on maps but vanished upon closer inspection. These islands were sometimes the result of navigational errors, optical illusions caused by atmospheric conditions, or the misinterpretation of natural features such as icebergs or volcanic eruptions.

For instance, Buss Island, reported by several explorers in the Arctic, turned out to be a mirage caused by unusual atmospheric refraction.

Explorers like Cristoforo Colombo famously searched for mythical islands such as Antillia, believed to lie west of Portugal and Spain. The quest for these elusive lands drove exploration and pushed the boundaries of geographical knowledge, contributing to both scientific discovery and cultural exchange.

Cultural Significance and Mythology

Beyond their geographical implications, lost lands and phantom islands hold profound cultural significance. They often feature in myths and legends as paradises, utopias, or realms inhabited by supernatural beings. The tale of Avalon, the legendary island associated with King Arthur and the Lady of the Lake, embodies themes of immortality and otherworldly beauty. These narratives resonate across cultures, reflecting human desires for discovery, escape, and transcendence.

In folklore, phantom islands sometimes serve as cautionary tales, warning sailors of treacherous waters or marking the boundaries between the known and the unknown. They blur the lines between reality and fantasy, offering glimpses into the collective psyche of civilizations throughout history.

Scientific Explanations and Modern Understanding

Modern science claims to have unraveled many mysteries surrounding lost lands and phantom islands. Satellite imagery, sonar mapping, and advanced geo-spatial technologies have allowed researchers to confirm the existence or non-existence of these elusive features. For example, the island of Bermeja, once thought to lie off the coast of Mexico, was officially disproven in the 20th century through systematic surveys.

Moreover, geological processes such as tectonic activity, sea level changes, and erosion, provide some explanations for the disappearance of landmasses over time. Islands may submerge due to volcanic activity, coastal erosion, or shifts in the Earth’s crust, somewhat demystifying once-mythical places and revealing the dynamic nature of our planet’s geography.

Contemporary Examples and New Discoveries

Despite scientific advancements, tales of lost lands and phantom islands persist into the contemporary era.

Furthermore, ongoing exploration of the Arctic and Antarctic regions continues to unveil new geological features and underwater landforms previously unknown to science.

The following list of 20 lost lands and 20 phantom islands highlights the evolving nature of geographical knowledge and the interconnectedness of cultural narratives with scientific inquiry.

Lost Lands (Geography and Mythology):

Atlantis: The most famous lost land, described by Plato as a highly advanced civilization that sank into the sea.
Lemuria, also called Mu: A hypothetical lost continent in the Indian Ocean called Kumari Kandam, proposed in the 19th century to explain geological and biological similarities between India and Madagascar. Legendary lost continent, proposed by Augustus Le Plongeon as the homeland of the Maya civilization, now largely considered a pseudoscientific concept.
Hy-Brasil: A phantom island off the coast of Ireland in Celtic mythology, said to appear every seven years and be shrouded in mist. Some researchers consider it to be a vanished land connected to present-day Brasil.
Thule: In ancient Greek and Roman literature, Thule was a distant place located beyond the borders of the known world, often associated with Scandinavia or Iceland.
Avalon: A legendary island in Arthurian legend, associated with King Arthur and said to be the place where the sword Excalibur was forged and where Arthur was taken after his death.
Lyonesse: A mythical land said to have existed off the coast of Cornwall, England, now submerged beneath the sea.
Ys: A legendary city in Breton folklore, said to have been submerged beneath the sea due to the pride and sins of its inhabitants.
Greater Adria: It is named after Adria, a geologic region found in Italy, where evidence of the microcontinental fragment was first observed. Greater Adria’s size can be compared to that of modern day Greenland.The only part remaining relatively intact is a strip running from Turin and Istria to the Heel of Italy, under the Adriatic Sea. Most of the remains are 1,000 kms (620 mi) under Europe, deep in the earth.
Zealandia, also known as Te Riu-a-Māui for the Maori, or Tasmantis, is an almost entirely submerged mass of continental crust in Oceania. Satellite imagery shows it to be almost the size of Australia. A 2021 study suggests Zealandia is over a billion years old, about twice as old as geologists previously thought.
Neolithic Malta:When Malta was still connected by land to Sicily, circa 12,000 years ago, the site of Marsaxlokk towered at least 150 metres above sea-level.
Balkanatolia. It was an island continent or a series of islands, separate from Asia and also from Western Europe. The area now comprises approximately the modern Balkans and Anatolia.
Beringia: Today is defined as the land and maritime area around the Bering Strait. At various times, it formed a land bridge referred to as the Bering land bridge, that was up to 1,000 kms (620 mi) wide at its greatest extent and which covered an area as large as British Columbia and Alberta combined.
Doggerland. It was an area of land in Northern Europe, now submerged beneath the North Sea, that connected Britain to continental Europe. Geological surveys have suggested that it stretched from what is now the east coast of Great Britain to what is now the Netherlands, the western coast of Germany and the Danish peninsula of Jutland.
Dvaraka, an ancient submerged city in modern-era Gujarat, India. Modern Dwarka. It’s known as a Hindu pilgrimage site.
Graham Island/Isola Ferdinandea is a submarine volcano in the Mediterranean Sea near Sicily that has, on more than one occasion, risen above the surface via volcanic action and soon thereafter been washed away. Since 300 BC this cycle of events has occurred four times.
Kerguelen Plateau: One of the largest igneous provinces in the world, it covers an area three times the size of California. It rises 2,000m (6,600 ft) above the surrounding oceanic basins. Most of the plateau is less than 3,000 m (9,800 ft) below sea level. It’s located in the Southern Indian Ocean.
Maui Nui: Located in the US state of Hawaii. Built from seven shield volcanoes. It broke up as rising sea levels flooded the connections between the volcanoes, creating the islands of the modern-era state.
Sundaland is a region of Southeast Asia corresponding to a larger landmass that was exposed millions of years ago during periods when sea levels were lower. It includes Bali, Borneo, Java, Sumatra in Indonesia, and their surrounding small islands, as well as the Malay Peninsula on the Asian mainland.
Viking-Bergen Banks are underwater hills in the North Sea, east of the Shetland Islands and west of Norway. When sea levels were lower during the Last Glacial Period, the hills formed an island that may have been occupied by humans.
Buyan, an island with the ability to appear and disappear in Slavic mythology.

Phantom Islands:

Sandy Island: A phantom island that appeared on maps in the Coral Sea, supposedly located between New Caledonia and Australia. It was listed as non-existent in 2012.
Frisland: A phantom island shown on maps in the North Atlantic Ocean during the Age of Discovery, now believed to have been a cartographic error.
Buss Island: Reported by several explorers in the Arctic, Buss Island turned out to be a mirage caused by unusual atmospheric refraction.
St. Brendan’s Island: A phantom island in the Atlantic Ocean, appearing on maps from the 15th to 18th centuries, named after the legendary Irish saint.
Antillia: A phantom island west of Portugal and Spain, appearing on maps during the Age of Discovery, possibly originating from tales of Atlantis.
Emerald Island: Reported to lie between Australia and Antarctica and south of Macquarie Island. Said to be a lush, green paradise.
Crocker Land: A phantom island supposedly sighted during an Arctic expedition, later found not to exist. A hoax invented by explorer Robert Peary to gain more financial aid from George Crocker, one of his financial backers.
Aurora Islands: Phantom islands reported in the South Atlantic, believed to be visible only under specific weather conditions.
St. Matthew Island: A phantom island once thought to lie roughly one thousand kilometers northeast of Ascension Island in the Atlantic Ocean. It appeared on navigational charts as late as the twentieth century.
Isle of Demons: A phantom island reported by sailors in the North Atlantic in Canada. It was believed that the island was populated by demons and wild beasts which would torment and attack any ships that passed, or anyone that was foolish enough to wander onto the island.
Island of Mayda: A non-existent island in the North Atlantic that has been shown on several published maps at various points in history. It was most often represented as being crescent-shaped and its position has varied widely over time. Early maps drew the island west of Brittany and southwest of Ireland.
Porcupine Bank: A phantom island reported off the west coast of Ireland, believed to have been a misidentification of a shallow bank.
Anaa-ti. Located in French Polynesia in the Southern Pacific Ocean. Believed to be a mistaken sighting of a nearby island.
Antonio de Ulloa Island.Discovered by the Spanish captain Antonio de Ulloa in the South Pacific Ocean. Noted as doubtful in 1875.
Arthur Island. Phantom Island in the South Pacific Ocean. Noted to be needing confirmation of existence and position in 1851; not seen on modern maps.
Bermeja.Discovered in the early 16th century by Spain, but mysteriously vanished sometime during the 17th century. A phantom island off the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, which appeared on maps until it was disproven in the 20th century. While no dominant theory holds, it is possible that the island submerged due to tectonic movements, nearby Scorpion Reef.
Bonetta Rocks.Location given between Cape Verde and Mauritania. Could not be found in 1838.
Cassiterides. Ancient source of Phoenician tin. Exact location unknown but thought to have possibly referred to now silt-connected islands within the marshes of Briere.
Davis Land. Supposedly sighted by the pirate Edward Davis in the Pacific along the same latitude as the Spanish-controlled gold mines of Copiago. At the time, it was believed that gold could be found elsewhere along the latitude, so several navigators were instructed to search for it. Never found, it was also believed by William Dampier to be the coast of Terra Australis Incognita.
Cloate’s Island. West of Australia. Removed from charts by 1856 or earlier.

These lost lands, vanished cities and phantom islands have fascinated explorers, historians, and cartographers throughout history, blending myth, folklore, and geographical exploration into a rich tapestry of cultural narratives and mysteries.

They represent more than mere geographical curiosities—they embody the human spirit of exploration, imagination, and discovery.

From ancient myths to modern scientific scrutiny, these enigmatic features have shaped historical narratives and cultural identities across civilizations. Their legacy endures in literature, art, and the collective consciousness.

What do you think about lost lands and phantom islands? Let us know in the comment section below and share the post!!!

Video version here:

Lost Lands and Phantom Islands

Interesting sources, additional info, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_lost_lands

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greater_Adria

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zealandia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balkanatolia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beringia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doggerland

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dv%C4%81rak%C4%81 Dwarka

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graham_Island_(Mediterranean_Sea)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kerguelen_Plateau

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maui_Nui

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sundaland

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viking-Bergen_Banks

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atlantis

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avalon

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buyan

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumari_Kandam (Lemuria)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lemuria

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mu_(mythical_lost_continent)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ys

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phantom_island

Further reading

Brooke-Hitching, Edward (2016). The Phantom Atlas: The Greatest Myths, Lies and Blunders on Maps. London: Simon & Schuster UK. ISBN 978-1-4711-5945-9.
“Thompson Island”. Archived from the original on 19 April 2009.
Stommel, Henry (1984). Lost Islands: The Story of Islands That Have Vanished from Nautical Charts. Vancouver: University of British Columbia Press. ISBN 978-0-7748-0210-9.
Gaddis, Vincent, Invisible Horizons, Chilton Books. New York. 1965.
Clark Barnaby Firestone, The Coasts of Illusion: A Study of Travel Tales, Harper Books, 1924.
Johnson, Donald S., Phantom Islands of the Atlantic, New York, Walker Publishing, 1996 (Rev. ed.).
William Shepard Walsh, A Handy Book of Curious Information, J. B. Lippincott, 1913.
Dirk Liesemer, Lexikon der Phantominseln. Hamburg, mareverlag, 2016, ISBN 978-3-86648-236-4.
Ramsay, Raymond (1972). No Longer on the Map. New York: Viking Press. ISBN 978-0-670-51433-5.
Gould, Rupert T. (1928). “The Auroras, and Other Doubtful Islands”. Oddities: A Book of Unexplained Facts. Kessinger Publishing. pp. 124–163.
L. Ivanov and N. Ivanova. Phantom islands. In: The World of Antarctica. Generis Publishing, 2022. pp. 74–77. ISBN 979-8-88676-403-1