This vampiric spirit from Romania is described as being half bear and half old woman and has been given the title “queen of the forest.” Particularly bloodthirsty, it has total control over the evil within the woods.
PRONUNCIATION:
AH-ray-pa SAY-ta-ni-eye
VARIATIONS:
Avestita, BABA COAJA (“Mother Bark”), Mama Padurii, Samca
SOURCES:
- Ankarloo, Witchcraft and Magic, 83;
- Cremene, Mythologie du Vampire;
- Dundes, Vampire Casebook, 12
SOURCE:
Encyclopedia of Vampire Mythology Written by :Theresa Bane ©2010 Theresa Bane. All rights reserved