haunted wales
Date 25/11/2003 | Topic: Investigations
| Paranormal investigator Richard Holland explains why he thinks the region is so haunted...
Perhaps there is something in the nature of a borderland like NE Wales which makes it particularly prone to the supernatural. Certainly we have more than our fair share of haunted houses.
In a secluded spot near the village of Llanefydd in Denbighshire stands the ancient house of Berain. In the 16th century Berain was the home of Catrin Tudur. According to legend, Catrin had seven husbands - all of whom she is said to have murdered in order to increase her personal wealth. She despatched her spouses in a novel and particularly unpleasant manner, by pouring molten lead into their ears as they slept. One of the husbands woke just as Catrin was about do the deed, so she was forced to improvise - with a large knife! It is said that an indelible bloodstain on the oak panelling commemorates this affair. Catrin and all seven of her assassinated husbands haunt Berain, the latter no doubt making the afterlife pretty difficult for her.
Another murderess haunts Ruthin Castle. Behind the Victorian fabric of the popular hotel are the ruins of the medieval fortress. Here, in an alcove just off the ramparts, can be found the Grey Lady's Grave.
The Grey Lady was wife to the Head Steward of the Castle back in the 15th century. When she discovered her husband was carrying on an intrigue with a younger woman, the Grey Lady flew into a temper - and beheaded him with an axe! Executed for her crime, she was buried in unconsecrated ground, and her unhappy spirit can still be seen on moonlit nights wandering the lonely ramparts.
Ewloe Castle in Deeside also has a ghostly reputation. The romantically wood-bound ruin is the scene of many strange phenomena, including mysterious lights, the sound of invisible marching men, and an eerie singing which can be heard echoing around the battlements during thunderstorms.
found at http://www.bbc.co.uk
25th november 2003
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