TOP FIVE: The real history of Scotland’s witches
- 33:47
- February 23rd 2024
This week, we’re returning to one of our most popular episodes, which was first released in May 2022.
Jackie was joined by Dr Ciaran Jones, the lead researcher and author of a report on the links between NTS properties and the witch trials of the 16th-18th centuries.
Why did Scotland try to execute five times as many so-called witches as the rest of the Europe? What fuelled 4,000 people, the vast majority of them women, to be accused of witchcraft? Why were wires inserted into suspected witches? And what was it that finally drew this dark chapter of Scottish history to an end?
This episode looks at the dark past of witch trials – a story that may sound like it belongs in the history books – and the relevance they have to the way we live – and let live – today.
Next week, we go further back in time to find out more about the Roman invasion of Scotland.
New episodes of Love Scotland will return later in 2024.
Love Scotland
Love Scotland is a podcast series from the National Trust for Scotland.
From coastlines to castles, art to architecture, wildlife to wilderness, the National Trust for Scotland cares for and protects some of Scotland's most significant places and spaces, allowing them to be enjoyed today while protecting them for future generations.
Hosted by TV star and expert broadcaster Jackie Bird, and featuring experts and enthusiasts from all walks of life, each episode delves deep into the detail of Scotland’s history, its wildlife and its landscapes.
You can find out more about the National Trust for Scotland's work and how to support them at http://www.nts.org.uk.
Love Scotland is produced by Think, Big Light and Demus Productions on behalf of the National Trust for Scotland.
Meet the Host
Scottish journalist and broadcaster, Jackie Bird is familiar to many Scots at home and abroad from her time as a BBC Reporting Scotland news anchor. She has been the host of BBC Scotland’s Hogmanay Live, as well Scotland’s Children in Need coverage, as well as a wide range of documentaries.
Jackie is passionate about the stories behind Scotland’s history and heritage, and she shares the National Trust for Scotland’s drive to bring a love of Scotland to life.