Most Interesting Superstitions From Europe
Superstitions play a significant part in the daily lives of many living in countries around Europe. There have been long-held beliefs that superstitions can be integral in producing good luck, good fortune and success, which is why so many are fully invested in them. And there are certainly some interesting ones in circulation.
The Number Thirteen Is Unlucky And Lucky
If you’re in the UK and other areas of Europe, the number thirteen is deemed seriously unlucky. The UK is probably more well known for its traditional bingo halls and more recently, playing online with Foxy Bingo and other popular sites. However, its dislike of anything to do with the number thirteen is even more renowned. But, believe it or not, while the number thirteen has its detractors, it’s actually seen as a lucky number in Italy. That is until you’re the thirteenth person to sit down to eat at the dinner table, and then its meaning changes once again.
Porridge Keeps The Bad Luck Away
If you head to Norway, there happens to be multiple superstitions that you will only find are relevant there. And one of them surrounds porridge. It’s said that to guard against bad luck and trolls, you should leave a bowl of freshly prepared porridge on the doorstep. And, while you’re in Norway, you should never get caught whistling towards the sun because doing this is thought to increase the likelihood of it raining. Therefore, in this Scandinavian country, it seems possible to guard against bad luck and influence the weather.
Spilling Wine Is Fine
This is undoubtedly a superstition that most people won’t understand, because it’s never good when you spill a drink. And, when you spill wine, you could suggest it’s a bit of a disaster. However, if you happen to spill wine in Portugal, you may experience a reaction you’re not prepared for. You see, if you happen to knock over your glass of wine in Portugal, it’s actually thought to bring good luck. The reason for this is that it’s said that spilling wine will bring happiness and prosperity to everyone at the table. But don’t forget that walking backwards in Portugal is a no-no, so when clearing up the wine, always walk forwards.
Tuesday The Thirteenth
We started this list with a mention of the number thirteen, and we will end it in the same manner. Of course, it’s traditionally Friday the thirteenth around Europe that is deemed bad luck. And some people take it that seriously they refuse to leave the house on this day or modify their behaviour to stave off the chances of anything going wrong. But, head to Spain, and you’ll find it’s Tuesday the thirteenth that is classed as the unluckiest day on the calendar. Therefore, you will often see people avoid getting married on Tuesday the thirteenth, and some go as far as not travelling on planes or boats, just in case, as the fear is real.
Article written by Mitchell Smith
