Pareidolia Insights（3）The Souls of Mountains

1. Grandmother of Mountain Tai

If you rotate a photograph of Mount Tai by 90 degrees, you will see a vivid profile resembling the "Grandmother of Mount Tai." The legend of the Grandmother of Mount Tai dates back to the Ming Dynasty. Her figure is based on Bixia Yuanjun, who has long been revered as the Northern counterpart of Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. Temples dedicated to her are not only found on Mount Tai but also in various regions, where "Niangniang Temples" continue to flourish.

In fact, around the world, there are many mountains that have been anthropomorphized, each accompanied by a legend that has been passed down through generations. These stories often reflect humanity’s spiritual longing and reverence for the forces of nature. Here are some of the most famous examples:

2. Erlakogel, Austria --The Sleeping Greek Princess

   

   Erlakogel, located in Austria, is one of the many "Sleeping Beauty" mountains worldwide. Its ridgeline strikingly resembles a reclining woman, earning it the name "The Sleeping Princess Mountain" (Der Berg der schlafenden Prinzessin).

   
   

   According to legend, a beautiful princess once lived atop Erlakogel. She was deeply in love with a young hunter, but her father, a strict and powerful king, opposed their relationship. Instead, he arranged for her to marry a wealthy but cruel nobleman. Heartbroken, the princess fled into the mountains, praying to the gods for help. Moved by her sorrow, the gods placed her into an eternal slumber and transformed her body into the mountain, ensuring she would forever watch over the land.

   
   

3. Schlafende Hexe, Germany-- The Sleeping Witch Mountain

   

   The Sleeping Witch Mountain (Schlafende Hexe) is located in Bavaria, Germany, and is part of the Berchtesgaden Alps. The silhouette of its ridgeline resembles a reclining witch, which inspired its name.

   
   

   According to legend, an evil and powerful witch once lived in these mountains, terrorizing the villagers with her dark magic. Fearing her wrath, the people prayed to the gods for deliverance. One day, a brave young hunter climbed the mountain with a silver arrow and struck her in the heart. As she perished, she uttered a final curse before her body turned to stone, forming the mountain’s shape. It is said that during storms, her spirit awakens, and the howling winds and crashing thunder echo her lingering rage.

   
   

4. Zugspitze, Germany-- The Bavaria Chief

   

   Zugspitze, the highest peak in Germany, is known as the "Bavaria Chief" and is one of Europe's most breathtaking natural landmarks. Beyond its scenic beauty, the mountain carries rich historical and cultural significance, earning the title "The Glory of Bavaria."

   
   

   According to legend, the mountain was once home to mighty giants who protected the valleys below. As humans arrived, the giants gradually vanished, becoming one with the land. Some believe that Zugspitze serves as a sacred site where gods once communicated with mortals, and the whispering winds are thought to be the echoes of ancient deities.

   
   

5. South Tyrolean Chief, Italy--The Sleeping King

   

   The South Tyrolean Chief is a prominent peak in Italy’s South Tyrol region and part of the Dolomites. Its silhouette bears a striking resemblance to a reclining king, earning it the title "The Sleeping King."

   
   

   Legend has it that in ancient times, this mountain was the heart of a great kingdom ruled by a just and noble king. During a fierce battle against invaders, he suffered fatal wounds. Desperate to save him, his people carried him to a sacred mountain cave, hoping for divine intervention. However, he fell into an eternal slumber, and his body became part of the mountain. Locals say that when snowstorms rage, the wind carries the sound of the king’s sorrowful sighs as he continues to watch over his land.

   
   

6. Wilder Kaiser, Austria-- The Wild Emperor

   

   The Wilder Kaiser mountain range in Tyrol, Austria, is part of the Alps and is famous for its rugged cliffs, stunning landscapes, and vibrant climbing culture. It contrasts with the nearby Zahmer Kaiser ("Gentle Emperor"), together forming the "Kaiser Mountains" (Kaisergebirge).

   
   

   According to legend, the mountains were once the palace of a proud and ruthless emperor who called himself the "King of the Alps" and bowed to no one. He ruled with an iron fist, showing no reverence to the gods. One day, a mysterious old man visited the palace, warning the emperor to repent or face divine punishment. The emperor laughed arrogantly and dismissed the man, unaware that he was a god in disguise. Enraged, the deity cursed the emperor: "You shall turn to stone and stand here forever as the Wild Emperor!" At that moment, lightning struck, turning the emperor and his palace into the Wilder Kaiser mountains. Even today, people claim the jagged peaks retain his face, and during thunderstorms, the rumbling thunder is said to be his defiant roar.

   
   

7. Kauai, Hawaii, USA--The Sleeping Giant

   

   The Sleeping Giant Mountain, located on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, is one of its most distinctive natural landmarks. Its ridgeline resembles a giant lying on his back, giving rise to its legendary status in Hawaiian culture.

   
   

   According to folklore, a benevolent giant once lived on Kauai, helping villagers by moving boulders, building shelters, and protecting them from harm. Grateful for his kindness, the villagers hosted a grand feast in his honor. The giant ate and drank until he became drowsy, eventually lying down on the hillside to rest. But he never woke again—his body slowly turned to stone, forming the Sleeping Giant Mountain. Even today, locals see the mountain as a guardian, watching over the island’s people.

   
   

8. Bucegi Mountains, Romania-- The Old Woman and the Sphinx

   

   The Bucegi Mountains in Romania are home to two fascinating rock formations: Babele ("The Old Woman") and the Bucegi Sphinx. Babele consists of naturally sculpted rock formations that resemble an elderly woman wearing a headscarf, while the Bucegi Sphinx closely resembles the ancient Egyptian Sphinx.

   
   

   These striking formations are deeply intertwined with Romanian folklore and mythology. Some legends suggest they are remnants of an ancient Dacian civilization, while others believe they hold mystical energies. Over the centuries, the site has attracted countless visitors, researchers, and spiritual seekers, drawn by its enigmatic aura and cultural significance.

   
   

9. Matterhorn, Switzerland-Italy-- The Holy Mother Peak

   

   The Matterhorn, one of the most iconic peaks in the Alps, straddles the border between Switzerland and Italy. With its nearly perfect pyramid shape, it is often called the "Symbol of the Alps" and is affectionately referred to as "The Holy Mother Peak" (Cervino).

   
   

   According to legend, the mountain is the dwelling place of powerful deities who protect the land. One such deity, Cervino, was the guardian of mountains and snow. Angered by human disrespect, he cast a spell, transforming the landscape into an insurmountable peak. To ensure no one could easily climb it, he cursed the mountain, making it perilous and nearly impossible to scale. Over time, as people began to show reverence by offering prayers and tributes, Cervino lifted part of the curse, allowing only the bravest and most respectful climbers to reach its summit.

   
   

   These mountains, shaped by time and nature, have given rise to enduring myths that reflect humanity’s deep connection to the landscape. Each legend, whether rooted in love, defiance, or divine will, reminds us that the natural world has always been intertwined with the human imagination. 🌿⛰️✨