We've all heard them – don't walk under a ladder, avoid black cats, don't break a mirror. But have you ever wondered where these common superstitions originated? Let's dive into their surprising histories.

Walking Under a Ladder

This superstition dates back to ancient Egypt. Egyptians revered triangles as sacred (think pyramids), and a ladder leaning against a wall formed a triangle. Walking under it was seen as desecrating the triangle’s power. The belief persisted into medieval times, where the ladder symbolized the gallows or a death sentence. (source)

Black Cats

The association of black cats and bad luck has its roots in the Middle Ages when they were associated with witches. It was believed that witches could transform into black cats and back, leading to the superstition that they bring bad luck. (source)

Breaking a Mirror

The idea that breaking a mirror brings seven years of bad luck stems from ancient Rome. Romans believed that a mirror could confiscate part of the user's soul. If that mirror were to break, it would take seven years for the soul to renew itself. (source)

Knocking on Wood

The origin of this common saying is unclear, but one belief comes from ancient pagan cultures that believed trees were the homes of fairies, spirits, and other mystical creatures. Knocking on their trunks could awaken and release these beings’ benevolent aid. (source)