Myths & Legends

Cornwall is a land steeped in myths and legends, where almost every town or village has its own piece of folklore to tell.

Cornwall's most famous legend must be that of King Arthur who is believed to have been born at Tintagel Castle on the north Cornish coast. During his lifetime he reputedly defeated the Saxons in 12 successive battles, with his last battle being fought at Slaughterbridge near Wadebridge.

Another Cornish hero of a different kind features a cat called Mowzer who lived in the Cornish fishing village of Mousehole with her owner Tom. During one particularly bad winter storm the whole village faced starvation as none of the fishing boats could go to sea and bring back the mainstay of their diet: Cornish pilchards. But Tom and the courageous Mowzer braved the elements and took to the tumultuous seas to see what fish they could find and their bravery was rewarded well - not only did they bring back one of the biggest catches ever but they saved the lives of all the villagers.

Being surrounded by the sea it comes as no surprise that Cornwall has long been associated with mermaids and perhaps the most famous commemorated in the bench carvings of Zennor Church is linked to Matthew Trewhella, a chorister from Zennor, who was enticed to live with her beneath the sea. It is still said that their singing can be heard beneath the waves.

You can find out more about Cornwall's history and its famous myths and legends by visiting the Cornish Studies Library or by e-mailing cornishstudies.library@cornwall.gov.uk.