In County Roscommon, Ireland, lies a complex of archaeological sites called Rathcroghan that is revealing thousands of years of Ireland's ancient history, from the Neolithic to the medieval period. This is where you'll find the cave called Oweynagat, or the Cave of the Cats. The folklore surrounding the cave goes back a couple of thousands years, as it is known that the cave is a gateway to Hell and would open up every October 31st to release demons in the shape of animals that would strip the earth of its greenery. It is also the home of Morrighan, the pagan goddess of war.
We don't know how old the occasion called Samhain is, but its lore and customs are intertwined with those of Oweynagat. Locals would stay indoors on October 31st to avoid being dragged to Hell when the demons returned home. If you must go out, better wear a disguise so they won't know it's you. Read about the ancient Cave of the Cats (and other beasts) at Twisted Sifter. -via Strange Company
(Image credit: Davsca)
