Estonian Mythical Creatures

Part 2

I´ve had a soft spot for Estonian mythology and folktales for as long as I can remember. Essentially same thing that pulls me towards Estonian folktales pulls me towards all Finno-Baltic legends. Stories encourage people to examine their connection to nature and respect the invisible spirits that live around us. Here are some fascinating creatures from Estonian myths and legends.

Soovana The Saddened Mist

​Soovana is the guardian spirit of wetlands. He appears inside the mist or a bog. Sometimes the mist takes unusual shapes which probably inspired the legend of Soovana. If bog turf has an unusual amount of cranberries Soovana has cranberries growing in his hair. He is not to be disturbed for the experiences periods of sadness and melancholy and even picking cranberries might anger him.

Murumemm Mother of the Meadows

Murumemm is the protector of fields and farms. She is very interested in the well-being of people and shares old folk wisdom with them. Murumemm loves to take care of the land and do things together. She is the caretaker of bees which are her sacred animals. Murumemm is also a merry figure and she loves dancing.

Kivialune The Cave Spirit

Kivialune is a small-sized spirit who lives and meditates in stone caves. He loves silence and can be quiet and motionless for days and in the end, he appears into his surroundings. He remains in the darkest part of the stone cave. To get rid of unwanted strangers Kivialune sends a large stone roll down from his location. He does not wish to harm the unwanted guest. He just wants to frighten them.

Saarevaht The Solitary Islander

​Saarevaht is the keeper of islands. He feels a connection to the sea and water. Saarevaht locates himself in remote places. Often he is the keeper spirit of the lighthouse. He communicates with plants and can transform himself into a fox or an eagle. He is a kind peaceful spirit and likes to show people around his home island. He gets angered by carelessness and rudeness.