Devils prowling the streets of Polotsk? An ancient Ruthenian chronicler referred to a similar incident from the 11th century!
IMPORTANT: The video is in Polish, so be sure to enable translation. It discusses Nestor’s Chronicle, a medieval document that recounts bizarre occurrences in Polotsk (present-day Belarus). According to historians, in 1092, some devils reportedly hunted people at night, leading to numerous fatalities. This event bears a striking resemblance to the infamous Colares “chupa-chupa” attacks.
It’s fascinating how historical texts like Nestor’s Chronicle can offer such intriguing insights into past events, even if they sound fantastical to modern ears. The account of devils hunting people in Polotsk in the 11th century certainly bears a resemblance to contemporary reports of strange phenomena, like the Colares incidents. These stories reflect the cultural beliefs and fears of the times. The connection between these narratives highlights how folklore and historical events can intertwine, shaping our understanding of the past. I’m curious to see how historians continue to analyze these reports and what they reveal about societal views on the supernatural throughout history.