Dutch Folklore: A Dive into the Scary Stories of the Netherlands
Witte Wieven
Witches have long haunted the imagination of folklore across the world, and in the Netherlands, the Witte Wieven (the “White Women”) hold a place of dread. Originally from the Northern areas of the Netherlands, they are said to appear as ghastly old women with clawed hands and razor-sharp teeth, haunting the night. Tales warn of their cruelty: hiding treasures, taking infants from their cradles, and luring men to their death. Once victims of men, the White Women are believed to have risen from their graves, returning as spirits of vengeance.
Goeie Mie
Few people know that in the 19th century, Leiden was home to one of history’s most infamous poisoners. Maria Swanenburg, better known as Goeie Mie, appeared to be a kind and respectable woman, yet she was responsible for poisoning nearly 102 people, 90 of whom died. Her crimes went undetected for years because she poisoned her victims’ food with arsenic powder, an undetectable method at the time. Suspicion only arose when an entire family died at once, prompting an investigation. In 1885, she was finally arrested.
The Flying Dutchman
Legends surrounding this figure vary, yet they share a common thread. In the 17th century, Hendrik van der Decken, captain of a ship belonging to the Dutch East India Company, was sailing toward the Cape of Good Hope when he became trapped in a violent storm. Stubborn, he swore that he would survive the storm and press on until he reached the Cape, refusing to turn back. His oath drew the attention of the devil, who cursed him to roam the seas for eternity. According to the legend, seeing the Flying Dutchman was a menacing omen, foretelling disaster for sailors.
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