Vampire Legends With Chilling Real-Life Explanations

Vampires — fact or fiction? With countless urban legends about vampires out there, this question may not have a clear answer. What is certain is that no matter the context, vampires are some of the scariest monsters around. Sure, most people don't walk around in fear of the blood-suckers, but the truth within these urban legends may convince people otherwise...

Vamp Variety

We often think of vampires through a pop culture lens, but different cultures around the world would say otherwise. The Dracula-esque, blood-sucking, garlic-hating monster is the most well-known vampire, but vampires actually come in all shapes and forms, depending on who you ask.

Definitely Not Zombies

If you occasionally get vampires and zombies confused, you're not alone. These creepy creatures actually have a lot in common: They’re both monsters, both technically dead, and both intent on haunting humans. Most of all, both creatures have been legends for centuries.

Freeing Their Souls

The only reason vampires even "exist" is because people have always feared death, and what dying may do to one's soul. Before they converted to Christianity in the 7th century, for example, Slavic people believed that cremating the dead was the only way to ensure that their souls were free.

The Importance of Headstones

If a body was buried instead of cremated, it was important to visit the gravesite frequently in order to appease any angry, restless souls. Otherwise, they'd rise from the dead and terrorize the village as vampires. It sounds a little far-fetched, but this fear may be the reason why we have headstones.