THE WAILING WITCH OF LOCH MAREE

ORIGIN: Scottish Highlands

The urban legend of the Wailing Witch of Loch Maree originates from the Scottish Highlands, specifically near Loch Maree in Wester Ross. 

The loch is steeped in ancient folklore, but this particular story is among the most haunting. 

It is said that centuries ago, a woman accused of witchcraft was dragged from her home by a fearful and superstitious mob. 

They believed she had cursed their village, causing disease, poor harvests, and strange deaths. 

In desperate need to rid themselves of her 'perceived' evil, the villagers bound her and took her to the edge of Loch Maree.

There, she was made to go through something known as "witch ducking." 

The woman was tied to a large stone and cast into the cold, dark waters. 

If she sank and drowned, she would be declared innocent but dead. 

If she floated, it would confirm her guilt of practicing witchcraft and sorcery, and she would be executed. 

As the legend goes, she drowned, but not before cursing the loch and its people. 

Her dying screams echoed across the water as she struggled while sinking to the bottom of the water and her voice is said to still be heard along with the wind.

Fishermen and travelers near the loch have spoken about hearing her wailing cries on stormy nights, and many believe her restless spirit roams the shores, seeking for vengeance.