The unicorn

You’ve read the title, we’re talking about unicorns today. No, I haven’t lost my mind and yes, it is totally related to Scotland, let’s see how.

I guess you all know about this legendary creature looking exactly like a horse except a very tiny difference, the large spiralling horn they have in the forehead. Through the years and the societies, it used to represent purity, innocence but also masculinity, strength and some people even believed they had mysterious healing powers.

That you’ve been there or not, it’s quite well-know that Scotland is famous for being fond of myths. Not so surprising to find a horse-like beast legend in this region then (do you want a post about Kelpies?).

Folklore

One story says the unicorn symbol comes from the Vikings. They would have traded unicorn horn in Scotland in order to obtain lands, princess and other various riches. In reality, they were using narwhal horns, taking advantage of Scottish people being quite naïve. Little by little, Scottish folks became attached to this animal, describing it as peaceful but strong and defensive, just as the Scottish people!

Have you ever saw the unicorn bounded in a golden chain? In Celtic mythology, in addition to the qualities we saw, it was also considered as the most powerful animal that only virgin maiden could tame. Showing that you were capable of controlling such a wild animal was surely a big deal for kings at that time! During its reign (from 1466 to 1488), King James III actually introduced gold coins that featured a unicorn, and the heraldic symbol was firstly used on the Scottish royal coat of arms by William in the 12th century.

So yes, as crazy as it may sound, the national animal of Scotland is the unicorn. Folks are still very proud of it and it’s not rare to find unicorn status in a lot of cities. Honestly, I find it quite original and also so lovely! What do you think about it?

See you next time pal!