VRYKOLAKAS: An Ancient Greek Vampire
An artist's impression of a Vrykolakas. Image: Random Times
In Greek folklore, there is an evil undead creature called the Vrykolakas, said to be a type of vampire. If a Vrykolakas knocks on your door and you greet it you will be soon to die.
The Legend of the Vrykolakas
The undead have always been a feature of folklore around the world. Different cultures have their own versions of vampire-like creatures, each with unique characteristics. One such creature that stands out is the Greek Vrykolakas.
Unlike traditional vampires, becoming a Vrykolakas doesn't involve being bitten. It is believed that living a sacrilegious life, being excommunicated, or being buried in unholy ground can make one susceptible to becoming an undead. You can also become a Vrykolakas by eating mutton that has been previously consumed by a werewolf.
Contrary to the vampire myth of turning others into vampires through bites, the Vrykolakas spreads death through disease. If a Vrykolakas was seen roaming a town, it would indicate mortal peril. To lure victims, it would knock on doors, and once the door was opened, the person would soon die. To this day, in certain areas of Greece, it is common practice to wait for a second knock before opening the door. Not all Vrykolakas had the intention of killing everyone they encountered, however. Some were souls seeking to fulfill unfinished business, often due to their unfortunate or violent deaths.
Vrykolakas Stories
One notable Vrykolakas was called Patino. He was a merchant from Patmos who died during a trip to Natolia but was somehow revived. He began terrorizing the town, assaulting people, damaging property, and causing chaos. Despite attempts at exorcism and increased prayers, Patino remained unaffected. Eventually, the villagers exhumed his body and sent it back to Natolia. During the journey, the terrified sailors decided to burn the corpse, which put a stop to the wrath of Patino.
Another story involves Demostratus and Charito's daughter, Philinnon, who died at a young age. Around six months after her death, a strange woman was seen entering the living quarters of a young guest named Machates. Confused, Charito questioned Machates about the visitor, only to discover that the girl's name was Philinnon. Machates showed them her belongings—a breast band and a ring—which the parents recognized as their deceased daughter's. The next night, Philinnon returned to Machates' room. Desperate to see their daughter, the couple rushed in, but she regarded them coldly and explained that she had been given three days to visit him before dying again due to their interruption. Before their eyes, her body transformed back into a lifeless corpse. Despite their efforts to keep her return a secret, the discovery spread, and her burial vault was investigated. The grave contained several items from Machates but no body.
How to Ward off a Vrykolakas
Getting rid of a Vrykolakas is similar to dealing with an Eastern European vampire. Methods such as staking through the heart, impaling, or cremating the corpse are believed to be effective. It may even be possible to get rid of them using an exorcism or other religious banishment ceremony.
Have you ever encountered a Vrykolakas? Tell us about it in the comments.
If you enjoyed learning about the Vrykolakas you might also be interested in the Irish Sluagh or the ghostly handprint of Francis Leavy.
