As St. Patrick's Day approaches, Ireland, with its verdant landscapes and ancient castles, intrigues us to explore the shadowy and legendary corners of its lore. Irish mythology and folklore are rich with tales of the supernatural, from eerie banshees to mysterious faeries. Here are (lucky) seven of the creepiest legends and lore from Ireland, where history and mystery meet.

What better Creature Feature Friday for the week of St. Patrick’s Day than the LEPRECHAUN? In Irish folklore, leprechauns are part of the fairy family, a solitary kind of fae that practices shoe-making and playing practical jokes. Though their existence has not been proven or disproven, leprechauns are officially protected as a species under European law. Check out 5 more fast facts about leprechauns here, and Happy St. Patrick’s Day!