Welsh Witchcraft Revelations and Ruins: The Example of Mari Berllan Biter

Abstract

ABSTRACT The supernatural in Wales, as in many places across the British Isles, is very topographical. Much of its landscape, features, sites, and buildings inspires and attracts the supernatural in equal measure. This article considers this relationship and the issues surrounding the historical and cultural interpretation of the supernatural in Wales through a close examination of a small, ruined cottage in the village of Pennant in Ceredigion, orCardiganshire. It was the home of Mary Davies (ca.1817–1898), or Mari Berllan Biter – a reputed witch. This article will reveal how the intricacies of witchcraft beliefs in Wales are revealed through a close analysis of not only the historical evidence surrounding Mari, but also the physical remnants of her ruined cottage, thus highlighting the potential for collaboration between the spheres of history, heritage, and archaeology in understanding the key role of supernatural beliefs on our landscape.