Famous italian witches. During the 20th century, the book was .

Famous italian witches ” “She cured my There is an old Italian Witch Charm, called the Cimaruta (meaning a sprig of rue) which was once worn as a sign of membership in the Witch Cult. Nov 26, 2019 · Here are over 350 witch names inspired by history and fiction. Whether for yourself, an animal familiar, or a fictional character, enjoy reading these delightfully witchy nicknames. Despite the Doñas de fuera playing a part in the Italian witch trials, and being labeled as witches, they are appear more closely associated with what we would call faeries. Witchcraft is the use of magic by a person called a witch. Giulia Tofana (also spelt Toffana, Tophana, Tophania) (died in Rome, 1651) is a historical figure associated in later accounts with the poison known as Aqua Tofana. Abbott – meaning “father and priest,” this occupational English name is the head of a monastery. During the 20th century, the book was May 22, 2025 · The figure of the witch has haunted the British imagination for centuries, evolving from powerful mythological beings and respected healers to targets of widespread panic and persecution, and eventually, to a symbol of misunderstood spirituality. According to the prosecution, Triora’s witches would meet with the Devil in a place called Cabotina, which you can still visit today. Feb 15, 2023 · Italy is a country with a rich history and culture, and one of the most interesting aspects of it’s cultural heritage is the tradition of Italian witchcraft, also known as Stregoneria. Lists of executed people for religious offenses, including heresy, apostasy, impiety, desecration and blasphemy. The Benandanti was an agrarian cult with shamanic characteristics that gradually transformed under the pressure of the inquisitors to assume the features of traditional Italian witchcraft. This list includes people executed legally and semi-legally but not people murdered extrajudicially. Explore herbalism, rituals, and the significance of bloodlines in this ancient practice. These spirits are said to roam the countryside, haunting old castles, and seeking revenge on the living. 1640–1649 Place Italy Medium Oil on canvas We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Whether pushing the stigma or giving the witchcraft community a new narrative, here are 50-plus films centering on witches. From this extensive research, Leland published “Aradia, or the Gospel of the Witches” in 1899, one of his three books on Italian folk traditions, purportedly detailing the traditional beliefs of Italian witchcraft and revealing the existence of a surviving witch cult from ancient times in Italy. Apr 18, 2019 · In the hills around the northern Italian village of Paroldo, a group of female shaman known as Masche still practice ancient magical rites said to cure diseases. Which one is your favorite? Apr 22, 2023 · The Witches of Benevento, or Le Streghe di Benevento in Italian, is a folklore that dates back to ancient times in the southern Italian region of Campania. Oct 12, 2022 · Witches are the infamous villain. On an afternoon in early December, I drive up to meet Lori Bruno, an Italian-American strega whose family claims descent from the Sicilan strega line of witchcraft. Traditionally she fills their socks with sweets and presents if they are bravi (good), or a lump of coal if they are monelli (naughty). A sulphurous masterpiece of esoteric art, The Witch by the tormented and original 17th-century painter Salvator Rosa, becomes part of the Uffizi collection. They have captivated the world with their magic, wisdom, and charm. Their embrace of independence and rejection of social norms have often resulted in their institutional vilification; but behind Artist Salvator Rosa (Italian (Neapolitan), 1615–1673) Culture Italian Titles The Witches' Sabbath Date c. Mar 8, 2021 · Capannori’s Witches’ Oak went a step further and became also synonym with one of the most famous pieces of Italian and children literature in the world. " Folklore says that it was a gathering place for the witches of the world. He is perhaps best known for his popularization of Stregheria, the witch sect of Old Italy, and for his research on Charles Leland ’s work on Aradia. [1] Northern Italy had many witch trials in the 15th century, peaking during the Italian Renaissance and the Italian Wars Nov 2, 2025 · The line between goddess and witch or witch and saint is very thin in ancient history. Primary sources unearthed from Vatican and city archives offer insights into this phenomenon, and notable Early Modern microhistorians such as Guido Ruggiero, Maria Sofia Messana, Angelo Buttice and Carlo Ginzburg (among others), have defined their careers detailing this topic. It was here that the witches would gather to perform their rites and spells around a sacred walnut tree; famous witch trials in 1428 reinforced these associations more strongly within the culture of Italy. From classic spellbinders to modern witch tales, the list of the best movies about witches captures a wide spectrum of films that explore the Dec 20, 2019 · On January 5th throughout Italy, excited children prepare for a late-night visit from La Befana by hanging up socks to be filled with small delights. Strega is the Italian word for "witch" and the liqueur is sometimes referred to as the "witches liqueur. The Witches of Benevento Series Sophie Blackall and John Bemelmans Marciano Five children conspire to outwit the legendary witches of Benevento, supernatural beings who cause mischief in a small Italian town. Apr 7, 2024 · Italian witchcraft, known as “stregheria,” traces its roots to the ancient pagan practices that endured on the Italian peninsula even as Christianity spread. Rue is so deeply connected to Witchlore, that it appears in many different aspects of the Tradition. Witch trials in the historic Italian states took place between the 14th and 18th centuries. Find and save ideas about italian witch on Pinterest. Here are the best movies about witches: Jul 17, 2017 · The “good witches” of 16th-century Italy didn’t fit the demonic model––until Inquisitors forced them into it. Strega liqueur is one of the most famous Italian liqueurs, it is unique and unmistakable for its taste, thanks to the exclusive use of natural ingredients. Together with the magical creatures, the protagonists of these stories are farmers Jun 15, 2025 · Read on to discover 100 amazing witch last names with magical origins, mystical meanings, and fascinating namesakes. Or, shall we say, superpowers? Witches can make magical potions to not only poison others but to make some people in love into others, too. May 9, 2022 · When witch hunts hit their heyday in the 15th century, many Italians were secretly still involved in pagan cults. Estimates of the number of executions has varied, and range from hundreds to thousands of victims. Stay tuned. We’ve all heard the stories about magic and mischief. 1534–1577 The history or legend of the witches of Benevento is folklore dating from at least the 13th century, and one reason for the fame of Benevento, an ancient Samnite city. Explore the rich history, benefits and challenges of this ancestral practice and how they intertwine with Italian culture. A coven is a group of witches, which can come in different forms depending on the type of witchcraft the witches belong to. At the foot of the Apennine Mountains, about 30 miles northeast of Naples, is the city of Benevento. Jan 12, 2016 · Liquore Strega is a saffron-hued herbal liqueur from Benevento, Campania, Italy. Jul 12, 2024 · Italian folklore is a rich tapestry of myths and legends that have been passed down through generations, shaping the culture and beliefs of the Italian people. Its processing starts with the grinding of about 70 herbs and spices – each one with unique properties – selected from all over the world. The most famous Italian witch was a fourteenth century wise woman who called herself Aradia. The name "Strega Nona" resembles the Italian phrase for "Grandma Witch", though the accurate Italian rendering would be "Nonna Strega", with the words reversed and "Nonna Jan 12, 2016 · Liquore Strega is a saffron-hued herbal liqueur from Benevento, Campania, Italy. [1][2] While most practitioners consider Stregheria to be a distinct tradition from Wicca, some academics consider it to be a form of Wicca or an offshoot. The witches have sparked human imagination for thousands of years. Aradia is a very important figure in the Italian witchcraft tradition of Stregheria, especially as practiced in the USA. Italy is a magical land, from the Alps to the Apennines, from the mountains to the sea, from the woods to the glades, there are many legends. Oct 22, 2024 · Explore the haunting history of Triora, Italy's Town of Witches, known for its 16th-century witch trials, folklore-filled alleyways, and breathtaking viewpoints. Jun 17, 2023 · The founder of Angela's Symposium, Dr Angela Puca, speaks to us about her forthcoming book: Italian Witchcraft and Shamanism. It concerns Strega Nona and her helper, Big Anthony. Read more and discover the mysteries and wonders surrounding the Italian witches! Oct 30, 2020 · La Befana: the most famous Italian witch In Italian folklore, Befana (or the Christmas Witch) is an old strega who delivers gifts to children throughout Italy on the night of January 5th (Epiphany Eve). As wonderful as the tradition of Santa is, there are so many other famous holiday characters all over the world…especially in Italy! As you look up in the sky this Holiday season, you might not be seeing the […] Strega Nona is a children's picture book written and illustrated by Tomie dePaola. Oct 10, 2014 · Images of alluring young witches and hideous hags have been around for centuries – but what do they mean? Alastair Sooke investigates. Oct 19, 2021 · The witches were initially imprisoned in Ca’ de Baggiure (known today as “the witches’ home”) and, at least some of them, were later moved to Genoa. Key Takeaways: Italian witchcraft has a fascinating history that dates back to the Early Modern period. Modern scholarship disputes many details of her life, including her surname, origins, and any direct role in the 1659 prosecutions of the so-called Spana poison network in Rome. Mar 14, 2025 · If you're looking for a unique and magical name for your little girl, you might want to consider the following list of witch-inspired names. Oct 14, 2024 · Strega Nona: A Beloved Modern Witch One of Italy’s most famous fictional witches is Strega Nona, the wise old woman from a beloved children’s book series. All of them culminate in power. Both have similar beliefs and practices. Portions of Leland ‘s text influenced Gerald Gardner ’s Book of Shadows, especially the “Charge of the Goddess”, and Alex Sanders invoked Aradia as a Moon Goddess in the 1960s. Capannori, Italy Sep 20, 2022 · What Is Strega Made From? Strega has been produced in Benevento, Italy since 1860. The trials are told in the book “I Benandanti” by Carlo Ginzburg. Many represent the ethical dualities between good and evil while seeking to explain mysterious elements of life and nature. During the 20th century, the book was In this lesson, we will talk about a fascinating topic in which you will be able to see a part of your childhood. Oct 15, 2025 · Witch movies are an everlasting favorite, casting a spell on audiences worldwide with their enchanting stories, vivid characters, and magical escapades. Known as the “Salem of Italy,” the Triora Witch Trials began when the town was struck by famine, and accusations quickly arose that local women were responsible for the crop failures. Keep reading to learn more about this treasure trove of history and exciting stories. She is known as the queen of the witches and the Oct 25, 2025 · Much of what Gardner learned and borrowed from Italian witchcraft is now erroneously attributed to his own original writings. However, it was his sons who first marketed the liqueur, which is flavoured with over 70 different botanicals. Raven Grimassi is the This is a list of tv shows and movies I know of about witches and the world of magic. Sep 25, 2024 · I try to stay away from anything witch-like on the maps, as we all know they were just persecuted women, and that is a tragic part of human history. We sourced the rich collection of Italian folklore stories available today from contemporary written accounts of the early Italian folklore. [3][4] Santa Lucia is a holy woman who delivers gifts to children of Bergamo and province on 13 A collection of the most beautiful legends of Italian folklore. Many Italian Giallo-Mystery-Thriller-Horror movies (and TV series) with a magic, occult, supernatural and eerie touch. Sep 21, 2023 · Martinazza - Italy Made famous by the poem "Il Malmantile racquistato" by Lorenzo Lippi, Martinazza is a witch with remarkable magical powers, capable of subjugating infernal demons to the point of forcing them to pull her chariot. Throughout the southern Italian This famous Italian liqueur was first created by a wine merchant, Giuseppe Alberti of Benevento (known as the "City of Witches") in 1860. The name "Strega Nona" resembles the Italian phrase for "Grandma Witch", though the accurate Italian rendering would be "Nonna Strega", with the words reversed and "Nonna Strega is the Italian word for witch and the word is the name for "screech owl" and refers to a mythical vampiric feminine creature called a strix. Feb 1, 2018 · Oak of the Witches This enchanting 600-year-old tree is so magical it inspired the beloved tale of Pinocchio. Aradia’s story became popular with the Feb 28, 2021 · About Italian-American Superstitions Voodoo, curses, witchcraft. Italians who have contributed most to the history of mankind and the 'makers' of Italy. Historians and folklorists have disputed the existence of such a group. [2] The belief in witches has Aradia, or the Gospel of the Witches is a book composed by the American folklorist Charles Godfrey Leland that was published in 1899. May 13, 2023 · Strega: Discover Italian magic and tradition behind Strega witches. Christian names have usually honored biblical figures and saints, but pagans prefer to name themselves after nature, folklore, and the gods of antiquity. . In these years, Italian witch-hunters, including the philosopher Giovanni Francesco Pico (1469–1533), count of Mirandola, published books justifying the harsh punishment of witches, while a few sceptics began criticizing the witch-hunts. But Benevento bears, willingly, an ancient legacy—that of witchcraft—and this enchanted place might possibly be most famous for its trademark golden liqueur called Strega, Italian for In Italian folklore, La Befana is a witch who brings good children treats on the morning of the Epiphany on January 6. “Strega” is Italian for witch, drawing on legends of witchcraft in Benevento that go back to truly olde… May 4, 2018 · Famous Witches Throughout History: Morgan Le Fay Morgan Le Fay Morgan Le Fay (alternatively known as Morgaine le Fey, Morgane, Morgain, Morgana, Fata Morgana and other variants) is a powerful sorceress and antagonist of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere in Arthurian legend. Witch coven name generator This name generator will give you 10 random names for witch covens and similar groups. Visit the Ethnographic Museum of Jun 19, 2022 · Italian folklore: monsters, ghosts, and demons of the traditional Italian culture Creatures of Italian folklore. The destiny of their majority vanished in the spirals of time: etched in the memory of their contemporaries, but lost to records and posterity. Indeed, we decided to tell you about the most famous fairy tales in Italy that all of us, as children, heard time and time again. Together with the magical creatures, the protagonists of these stories are farmers Jan 31, 2025 · Have you wondered if you descend from witches? Check your familial names on the witch bloodline names lists here. Even today in this place breathes the magic of ancient times of Stregheria. In Italian folklore, the Befana is an old woman who delivers gifts to children throughout Italy on Epiphany Eve (the night of January 5) in a similar way to Santa Claus or the Three Magi Kings. Magic, history and breathtaking nature come together here - a must for anyone looking for something out of the ordinary! Explore the enchanting stories of 7 powerful witches, as we take a mystical journey into the world of mythology and folklore. Strega Nona embodies the duality of the traditional Italian witch—her magic is both helpful and mischievous. Nick, she comes down the chimney and puts treats and toys in children’s stockings, and if they’re bad she gives them coal instead. Regional folklore began to twist the narrative to reflect the pagan cultists as evil supernatural beings. The Witches at the Walnut Tree of Benevento, Guglielmo della Porta, c. According to Italian folklore, Befana is a figure not unlike Santa Claus who flies around Italy on Epiphany Eve and gives small presents to children who are well behaved. Not only that, but she’s even said to sweep the floor before leaving Dec 28, 2024 · La Befana – one of most famous Italian Christmas stories La Befana is hands down Italy’s most interesting Christmas character. The feminist movement reclaimed the word “witch” and its intrinsic power within social justice and patriarchal culture. S Aug 14, 2025 · Grab a cauldron of your favorite brew before you sit down with this list. Dec 12, 2022 · Respected for the same reason they're feared, witches channel the energies of the earth, moon, the living, and even the dead to control the natural world around them. Some of the most famous entities in Italian folktales include: The Witch of Endor: A powerful sorceress who possessed the ability to communicate with the dead and foretell the future. Aradia’s story became popular with the growth of Wicca and other Neo-Pagan traditions. Oct 22, 2024 · The Triora Witch Trials Another significant episode in Italian witch trial history took place in Triora, a small town in Liguria, in 1587. Known as the ‘good witch of Christmas’, La Befana presides over the feast of the Epiphany on January 6th. As I started to ask around I realized she was rather famous here in the Marche region of Italy, everyone had a s trega story to tell. Here are the best witches in movie and TV history. com A legendary walnut tree that stood on the banks of the Sabato River in Benevento is said to be the place where witches from across Europe came to gather, and where the Romans, and later, the Lombards may have practiced pagan rituals inspired by the Egyptian goddess Isis. Explore the complex history of 25 famous witches from global folklore, trials, and cultural movements through time. They often evoke a sense of mystery, power, and otherworldliness, which are all associated with the traditional role of witches in folklore and mythology. Abaddon – means “ruin and destroy” and makes a perfect evil sorceress name. Overview: Ecstasies: Deciphering the Witches' Sabbath is a study of visionary traditions in Early Modern Europe written by the Italian historian Carlo Ginzburg. Here are some traditional and unique Italian witch names: Jul 12, 2024 · Italian witches are often consulted for matters of love, health, and prosperity, and their knowledge of herbs, spells, and rituals is highly valued. Strega Nona is a children's picture book written and illustrated by Tomie dePaola. Sep 28, 2023 · Witches are a staple in supernatural stories, whether on the good or bad side. Dec 27, 2023 · Explore the 11 Best Italian Coffee Brands for an authentic caffeinated experience and find your perfect cup today. She is responsible for bringing about the revival of an “old religion” – Le Vecchia Religione. Witch trials were carried out by the Roman Inquisition as well as secular courts. Many of these fairy tales are not of Italian origin, but they are simple translations; therefore, we are sure that you know them as well! Oct 30, 2023 · What do we mean when we talk about “witches”? And what imaginary world is conjured up by this historical figure turned mythical? Folktales > European folktales > Italian folktales - Read an online collection of Italian folktales at World of Tales - Stories for children from around the world! Jul 27, 2020 · Benevento has long been considered an important meeting-site for Italian witches with associations becoming more widely popular in 1273. Witches can also turn people into animals or objects, or they can have the ability to shapeshift. [4] Strega is the Italian word for "witch" and since legends of witchcraft at Benevento date back to the time of the Lombard invasion, it was a natural choice of name for the liqueur. While “witches” is a reasonable translation, in the stories they remind me more of fairies. Geppetto couldn’t use its wood to make Pinocchio, though: the log Mastro Ciliegia gave him — from which old Geppetto created his puppet-child — came, in fact, from a cherry tree. [4] Jun 25, 2025 · This blog covers the top 10 fun facts about Italy, from Christmas witches to famous Italian artists. A Adrazelle (Mélusine) Alwina (Good witch in the Suske en Wiske story "Het Spaanse Spook") Alwina (Evil witch in the Suske en Wiske story "De Schat van Beersel") Antanneke (Witch in the Suske en Wiske story "De Zeven Snaren") Arba (Groo the Wanderer) B Queen Beryl (Sailor Moon) Broom-Hilda (Broom-Hilda) C Queen Candy (Sugar Sugar Rune) Circe Witch prosecutions reached their climax during the Italian Wars (1494–1530). There are many reasons for that. Raven Grimassi was the Italian-American author of over a dozen books on Neopaganism and witchcraft. The popular belief—that Benevento would be the Italian witches' gathering place—has abundant implications, blurring the border between A legendary walnut tree that stood on the banks of the Sabato River in Benevento is said to be the place where witches from across Europe came to gather, and where the Romans, and later, the Lombards may have practiced pagan rituals inspired by the Egyptian goddess Isis. Soon it will be welcomed in the Gallery, in the rooms of the 17th-century masters. Here are 5 places to learn about it. Jun 15, 2025 · Read on to discover 100 amazing witch last names with magical origins, mystical meanings, and fascinating namesakes. But if you were bad, look out! You may wake up to a lump of coal. Join us as we explore some of Italy's most famous ghostly legends and the stories behind them. Several Italian mythical creatures like the holiday witch Befana, endure as icons in modern culture. There is a picture of one in Doreen Valiente's book (AN ABC OF WITCHCRAFT & PRESENT). [3] One poster was designed in 1906 by Alberto Choppuis in the art nouveau style. Nov 21, 2020 · Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 48:28 — 44. If considered as a folktale, the story is Aarne-Thompson type 565, the Magic Mill. Nov 25, 2023 · Italian myth contains many human-like and beastly magical entities from ancient Roman, Greek, and pagan myths. Dive into a world of enchantment with our witch name generator! Concoct magically alluring names for all your DnD 5e, ESO, or World of Warcraft characters. Oct 10, 2022 · The hidden history of an Italian village where witches battled to determine if wine would spoil that season. In any case, the documentation of the process gives access to a Feb 17, 2023 · Looking for the perfect pagan or witch name? Check out our list of 100+ magical names drawn from the occult realms. Traditionally, "witchcraft" means the use of magic to inflict supernatural harm or misfortune on others, and this remains the most common and widespread meaning. 4MB) Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Android | Podchaser | RSS | More In southern Italy, belief in witchcraft has a long history, much of it centering on the town of Benevento, about 30 miles east of Naples. On the other hand, witchcraft practices are splashed across Instagram […] Jun 27, 2017 · Grimassi, Raven Raven Grimassi (1951–2019 ) was an American witch with a heritage and expertise in Italian Witchcraft. Mar 29, 2018 · The line between goddess and witch or witch and saint is very thin in ancient history. Apr 18, 2024 · Explore the enigma of Aradia - Italian Goddess or Wicked Witch, and her impact on folklore and modern witchcraft in this captivating read. Jun 9, 2021 · The Importance of Folklore to the Culture Italian folklore and other stories date back thousands of years and have many similarities to the Celtic, French, and Spanish stories. Oct 21, 2024 · In italy there are legends of Witches and ghosts, discover more about it and learn how nowdays italians celebrates Halloween Jul 27, 2023 · Let us travel through time to explore the stories of the 10 most famous witches in mythology and folklores. The history of Italian folklore has its roots in different cultural traditions that have left cultural legacies after their passage. Jul 8, 2025 · The witches' village of Triora: discover the dark history and magical landscape of Liguria Triora, the witches' village of Liguria! Immerse yourself in dark stories of witch trials and haunted legends, while the wild beauty of the Ligurian mountains casts a spell over you. In fact, her name comes from the Italian word for the Epiphany; epifania. Triora, a village in the Ligurian mountains, gained notoriety for its witch trials in the 16th century. The country is known for its ancient traditions and magical beliefs, making it a fascinating source for names associated with witches. In this lesson, we will talk about a fascinating topic in which you will be able to see a part of your childhood. Despite centuries of persecution and stigma, Italian witches have persevered, adapting their practices to survive in a society that is both intrigued and wary of their powers. Stregoneria is a centuries-old practice with roots in the folklore, mythology and native religious rituals and beliefs of the Italian people. As part of the series on witchcraft in Britain, this article will highlight some of the individuals named as witches, real and suspected, through Jul 12, 2024 · Italian folklore is rich with tales of ghosts and apparitions that have been passed down through generations. Christian names have usually honored Biblical figures and saints, Dive into the enchanting world of Italian witchcraft, Stregoneria, and the powerful figure of Aradia. Just like St. Thirty three people were accused of witchcraft in Triora, all of them tortured. There are more legends of Italian witches in the south (particularly near Naples). In the centre of the imposing painting, the wicked sorceress appears kneeling; her body is ungainly and sagging, and the painter almost obsessively I’d heard stories about La Strega di Monte Nerone, The Witch of Nerone Mountain, also known as, Loretta Stella. A great deal of Italian "witchcraft" is aimed at protecting oneself from strege --not identifying as one. Apr 11, 2019 · Looking for the perfect Pagan or witch name? Check out our list of over 100 magickal names drawn from the realms of the occult. Mar 1, 2023 · Witch names are typically characterized by their mystical and supernatural connotations. Some witches can fly The two trials which took place in Val Camonica in the Italian Alps, in 1505 – 1510 and 1518 – 1521, were among the biggest Italian witch trials, and between them resulted in over 120 deaths. The coven might be a community of many, a mere handful or anything in between. One of the most famous is the story of the witches of Benevento, who convened beneath a walnut tree on a hill therein, and danced and worshiped the Devil. Dec 22, 2024 · 22 December 2024 Italian Christmas Traditions:The Legend of La Befana Christmas isn’t always just about Santa Claus. Italy is home to various regional traditions and stories surrounding witches and magic. Oct 19, 2014 · Wicca, like any other religion, has myth and folklore galore. From a 1428 testimony by accused witch Matteuccia da Todi, we have the first mention (anywhere in Europe) of witches Dec 26, 2013 · In Sicily, being a strega (female) or stregone (male) is hereditary; one is born into a family of witches and taught the art from birth. On one hand, we have films like The VVitch and Midsommar painting them as stereotypical villains. Stregheria (Italian pronunciation: [streɡeˈriːa]) is a neo-pagan tradition similar to Wicca, with Italian and Italian American origins. It contains what he believed was the religious text of a group of pagan witches in Tuscany, Italy, that documented their beliefs and rituals. [2] A popular belief is that her name derives from the Feast of Epiphany (Italian: Festa dell'Epifania). Mar 3, 2024 · What are the sites of witch hunts in Italy? An instrument of control by religious authorities, the phenomenon in 16th-17th century Europe and Italy led to thousands of condemnations fueled by fear, superstition and ignorance. In Friuli-Venezia Giulia, a region of northwest Italy where Dolomite peaks slice into Strega became well known for its colourful and artistic advertising. “She lives alone in her house on a mountaintop and spends her days wandering the forest foraging for wild herbs and plants. The three famous witches of Macbeth are an enduring image. It is said to have originated in the town of Benevento, located in the province of the same name, and has since become an iconic symbol of the region’s rich history and culture. Many of these fairy tales are not of Italian origin, but they are simple translations; therefore, we are sure that you know them as well! Jun 27, 2020 · Witches continue to be an object of both fascination and fear as we roll deeper into the 21st century. For centuries, the gods and goddesses of witchcraft have had their tales spread far and wide Jul 12, 2024 · Notable Entities in Italian Folktales Italian folklore is rife with a plethora of notable entities that have captured the imagination of generations. Jan 10, 2022 · An ancient system of folk beliefs emerges through an Inquisition trial. Befana, a grandmotherly woman who resembles a kindly witch, brings gifts to good little children, depositing them in stockings hung above the hearth, then tidying up a bit before taking her leave. For example, Stregheria honors a pantheon centered on a Moon Oct 20, 2015 · The Town Of Witches The location of the last witch trials of Italy, known as "The Salem of Europe. Like any other Medieval Italian city, it boasts ancient Roman architecture and breathtaking scenery. One example of this confusion is the legendary story of Aradia – a woman whose life has been explored in neo-pagan and folklorist accounts of ancient myths and legends. Feb 19, 2025 · 152 Magical Last Names for Witches Hang up your broomstick, sit back, and enjoy our extensive list of witch surnames. Apr 12, 2024 · Looking to learn about the most famous witches in history? Here are our top 25 including witches from the Bible, Dark Ages, and modern day! Mar 9, 2019 · Benevento is best known as the Italian ‘Town of the Witches’. Jul 9, 2024 · Italian Witches Names Italy has a rich history and folklore when it comes to witchcraft. " Triora, Italy Witch trials in the historic Italian states took place between the 14th and 18th centuries. From the fantastical creatures of the woods to the ancient tales of gods and heroes, this comprehensive guide explores the fascinating world of Italian folklore. Jun 27, 2020 · Witches continue to be an object of both fascination and fear as we roll deeper into the 21st century. " The name is appropriate because the town of Benevento has long been considered "City of Witches. Protagonists of these stories are famous witches, spiteful follets, werewolves and little fairies. He was born in 1951, the son of an Italian immigrant mother who was herself born and raised in the area of Naples, Italy and who came to the U. See full list on weirditaly. Whether it’s for yourself, an animal familiar, or a fictional character, have fun perusing these delightfully witchy monikers. Oct 30, 2025 · Some researchers argue that this southern Italian town, a little more than two hours by train from Rome, became known for its witches because of its unique political position. [1] Though the idea of witchcraft is largely imaginary, it has nevertheless served in many cultures as a way to explain the presence of evil. Whether an old hag or a young seductress disguised to lure men away, witches are synonymous with female sexuality. [1] Northern Italy had many witch trials in the 15th century, peaking during the Italian Renaissance and the Italian Wars The practice of witchcraft is called stregoneria, a male witch is a stregone, and a female witch is a strega. Nov 2, 2025 · The line between goddess and witch or witch and saint is very thin in ancient history. pdsvsmlu daob pzlkn znlngo vhrvux rqpe musey mckxd iwzdmxl ajqh kcn sgbhxmox uoej pwhcx peim