Leprechauns are mythical creatures from Irish folklore. It is noteworthy that the image of this character is actively used by many countries to attract tourists. This is not only about the fact that leprechauns really exist and there are facts that allegedly confirm this rumor, but also about the role of unusual people in culture. There are parks, museums, alleys and lada celebrations dedicated to these characters.
Leprechaun image
In accordance with Irish folklore, you can draw up a brief description of the leprechaun, reflecting all its distinctive features. This creature outwardly resembles a person of small stature and, as a rule, of old age. The character is portrayed in a suit that is predominantly green and sometimes red. Leprechauns always wear matching hats.
Leprechauns live in the mountains of Ireland, but quite often they settle in the cellars of wine cellars or bars. This is due primarily to the characters' love for strong alcoholic beverages. By the way, every leprechaun always carries a flask with him and smokes a pipe.
The Irish gnomes have their own profession - they are shoemakers. Some sources mention information that leprechauns make shoes for other mythical creatures.
The main character traits of these characters are cunning, cunning, a tendency to deception and at the same time cowardice. Leprechauns are the keepers of ancient treasures. Each creature has a bag or jug of gold and jewelry, they always carry two purses with a silver and gold ruble. The silver coin always returns to the owner, and the gold one turns into a leaf. With these rubles, leprechauns deceive people. There is a belief that at night these characters walk around residential buildings and chip off pieces of gold coins, thereby replenishing their capital.
According to legend, the leprechaun can be found in the forest or mountains. If you catch a cunning creature, then you can try to find out from him information about the location of his jug with gold coins.
St. Patrick 's Day
Saint Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland. The holiday dedicated to this character is considered the most fun day of the year for the Irish. According to Irish belief, Saint Patrick brought Christianity to Ireland and defeated the evil snakes that inhabited the island.
In Dublin, the Leprechaun Museum is open, where you can see a huge number of exhibits that reveal the secrets of Irish mythology. In one of the halls you can feel like a gnome among giant furniture.
In addition to cunning and cunning, leprechauns also have good qualities. The characters have a cheerful disposition, they love jokes and entertainment. They became heroes of St. Patrick's Day almost by accident. The fact is that the image of a spiritual preacher is rather harsh, and more cheerful characters were needed for the celebration. This is how the leprechauns "made friends" with Saint Patrick.
The holiday is celebrated on March 17th. On this day, on the streets of Ireland, you can meet a huge number of people dressed as leprechauns. The Irish hold real parades and processions.