STORIES

As the harvest moon casts its eerie glow over Europe, the continent embraces the supernatural with open arms. Halloween, a tradition that traces its roots back to Ireland, permeates the region with a sense of spookiness and mystique. We invite you to embark on a journey through Europe’s darker side, from the birthplace of Halloween in Ireland to a haunted tale from Germany and a visit from a mysterious White Lady in Vienna. Along the way, we’ll also introduce you to a nearby historic stay…

Halloween’s Celtic Origins in Ireland

Halloween, known as Samhain in ancient Celtic traditions, originated in Ireland over two thousand years ago. While many believe the festival is of American origin, in Ireland it marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter, a time when the veil between the living and the dead was believed to be at its thinnest. The ancient Celts celebrated this event with bonfires, feasts, and costumes to ward off malevolent spirits.

To truly immerse yourself in the roots of Halloween, there’s no better place to stay than Barberstown Castle in County Kildare, Ireland. This medieval castle, dating back to the 13th century, offers an enchanting and historic setting for your spooky adventure. The castle’s impressive architecture, stunning grounds and fantastic fine-dining restaurant are reasons alone to visit but, if you’re brave enough, take a moonlit stroll through the castle’s ancient hallways, where local legend says that whispers of the past still linger.

Ghostly Encounters in Germany

Venturing beyond Ireland, we find ourselves in Germany, where the Schwarzer Bock Hotel has its own chilling story to tell. Nestled in the town of Ansbach, this historic hotel carries a dark secret. 

Guests and staff have reported inexplicable occurrences and hauntings within its walls.

In the Schwarzer Bock itself, inexplicable shadows have been sighted, and even a sceptic waiter, who believed in nothing supernatural, continued to bring menus to a hidden corner table, convinced that a guest was sitting there.

At the next table, strange complaints arose despite impeccable food, leaving both guests and staff baffled. A local priest suggested that these disturbances were the work of discontented souls. The house was blessed with incense and holy water, which finally put an end to the hauntings.

However, the paranormal tale didn’t end there. When the hotel sought the services of a dowser to locate water veins within the ancient building, the dowser surprised them by inquiring if they wanted to “take care of the souls.” He revealed that in such an old house, where wars and other events had unfolded, spirits may linger. Even more astonishingly, the dowser accurately described a hidden room within the deep cellar, matching historical plans.

Intrigued, the hotel staff asked the dowser what to do about this revelation. His response was unusual but somehow fitting: he believed the Catholic priest had already done an excellent job guiding the spirits. They were advised to keep the wall closed but were also told that they could communicate with the house spirits if they ventured into the cellar, as it was not mere self-talk.

As you sip a glass of wine or beer at the Schwarzer Bock Hotel, the locals will regale you with more creepy tales of the area, from the mysterious death of a dispatch rider in the woods of Ansbach to stories of historical stone men and the infamous Kaspar Hauser.

The Enigmatic White Lady of Vienna

Travel now to the historic city of Vienna, where the legend of the White Lady haunts the imperial city. She is said to be the spirit of a grief-stricken noblewoman, who lost her beloved in a tragic accident and has wandered the halls of Vienna’s imperial palaces in search of her lost love ever since. Her presence is believed to be an omen of impending disaster, and her appearance is said to foretell the fall of empires.

Experience Vienna’s mystique and possibly catch a glimpse of the White Lady, by staying at Hotel Stephanie. This charming and luxurious hotel, located in the heart of Vienna, offers a perfect blend of history and modern comfort. As you explore the city’s imperial palaces, winding streets, and vibrant culture, you may find yourself drawn into the intriguing legend of the White Lady.

Europe offers a hauntingly beautiful and enchanting landscape for Halloween enthusiasts and lovers of the supernatural. From ancient traditions and ghostly encounters, experience the mystical side of Europe this spooky season. Grab your costume and your courage, and set out on an adventure you won’t soon forget, as you explore the intriguing and chilling secrets that Europe has to offer.