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Benandanti
Fact sheet
- Name
- Benandanti
- Gender
- Boy name
- Syllables
- 4
The Benandanti (singular: Benandante) were people in northern Italy who believed they could leave their physical bodies at night to fight against witches and protect the fertility of the fields. During the Roman Inquisition, they were mistakenly equated with witches and executed, even though they saw themselves as defenders of the people.
What does the name Benandanti mean?
The term Benandanti (singular: Benandante) refers to people from northern Italy who believed they could leave their bodies at night to fight against witches and promote the fertility of the fields. During the Roman Inquisition, they were considered witches and killed, even though they saw themselves as protectors of the community. (cf. Johannes Dillinger: Hexen und Magie. Frankfurt am Main, 2007: 58-59)
Where does the name Benandanti come from?
The origin of the term is unknown.
How do you pronounce Benandanti?
Ben-an-danti
Popularity
The name Benandanti is distributed differently in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. In Germany, it is particularly common in Bavaria (50.0%) and Thuringia (50.0%). In Austria, it is mainly found in Lower Austria (50.0%) and Vorarlberg (50.0%). In Switzerland, it is 100.0% prevalent in Nidwalden. If you carry the name Benandanti, it would be helpful if you could share your home region with us to expand our statistics.
Frequently asked questions about the name Benandanti
What does the first name Benandanti mean?
The name Benandanti refers to people from northern Italy who believed they could leave their bodies at night to fight against witches and support the fertility of the fields. During the Roman Inquisition, they were persecuted as witches, even though they saw themselves as protectors of the community.
Where does the name Benandanti come from?
The exact origin of the term Benandanti is not known.
How popular is the first name Benandanti?
The first name Benandanti is rather rare and does not have widespread popularity.