The Drekavac
Deep within the ancient, whispering forests of Serbia, a sound echoes that chills even the bravest soul to the bone. A cry that is neither human nor animal, a haunting wail that signals the presence of something ancient, something sorrowful, something utterly terrifying. This is the Drekavac, a creature of Slavic folklore, whose legends are most potent in remote, densely wooded regions like Tometino Polje. If you’re a traveller drawn to the dark corners of the map, to cryptids and unsolved mysteries, then prepare to have your spine tingled by the tale of Serbia’s most unsettling forest dweller.
What Exactly is the Drekavac?
The Drekavac (pronounced dreh-KAH-vats) is not a creature easily categorised. Unlike the more well-defined vampires or werewolves of European lore, the Drekavac is a shapeshifter, a spectre, a manifestation of profound suffering. Its name, derived from the Serbian word ”drečati,” meaning ”to scream” or ”to shriek,” perfectly captures its most terrifying characteristic: its bloodcurdling cry.
According to various regional beliefs across the Balkans, the Drekavac is typically the restless soul of an unbaptised or improperly buried child. Other accounts suggest it could be the spirit of a person who died a violent death, forever bound to the earthly realm by their trauma. It’s often described as a gaunt, shadowy figure, sometimes resembling a small, emaciated animal like a dog or a bird, but capable of shifting forms. Some tales even speak of a creature covered in long, shaggy fur. Its essence, however, remains consistent: a sorrowful, vengeful spirit that haunts desolate places, especially graveyards, dark forests, and swamps, forever lamenting its fate through its piercing wail.
Tometino Polje
While Drekavac sightings and stories span across parts of the former Yugoslavia, the region of Tometino Polje in western Serbia has become a particular hotspot for encounters. This area, characterised by its dense forests, rolling hills, and isolated villages, provides the perfect backdrop for such a reclusive and spectral entity. The lack of urbanisation and the strong oral tradition among the locals have kept the Drekavac tales vividly alive.
Reports from Tometino Polje often describe the sound of a child crying or a cat wailing, which then escalates into an unearthly shriek. Villagers recount instances of hearing the cry at night, especially near crossroads or abandoned areas, sending shivers down their spines. Some claim to have seen glimpses of a shadowy figure darting through the trees, while others tell of livestock being found mysteriously agitated or even dead after a night of the Drekavac’s cries.
These collective experiences, passed down through generations, have woven the Drekavac deeply into the fabric of Tometino Polje’s local identity, making it a place where the line between folklore and reality feels exceptionally blurred.
Encounters and Explanations
For centuries, the Drekavac has served as a cautionary tale, a way to keep children from wandering into dangerous woods after dark, and a chilling explanation for inexplicable sounds in the night. Yet, for many who claim to have experienced its presence, the Drekavac is a tangible, terrifying reality.
Sceptics often attribute Drekavac sightings and sounds to known animals – foxes, lynxes, or even owls, whose nocturnal calls can be eerily human-like. The combination of rural isolation, the power of suggestion, and natural phenomena could easily fuel such legends. However, for those who have heard ”the cry,” these rational explanations rarely suffice. They describe a sound far more complex, more emotive, and more unsettling than any known animal.
The Drekavac remains firmly entrenched in the realm of cryptids, a creature whose existence is fiercely debated but whose impact on local culture is undeniable. For the adventurous traveller, this ambiguity is precisely what makes seeking out its legend so compelling.
The Cultural Resonance
The Drekavac is more than just a scary story; it’s a deeply ingrained part of Slavic cultural heritage. It reflects ancient anxieties about death, the unknown, and the consequences of neglecting spiritual rites. The legend often carries a moral undertone, reminding people of the importance of tradition, family, and respect for the departed. In a way, the Drekavac is a manifestation of collective grief and unresolved trauma, giving voice to the sorrow of unfulfilled lives.
Its enduring presence in Serbian folklore, literature, and even modern media speaks volumes about its power. It continues to inspire authors, filmmakers, and artists, ensuring that the haunting cry from the forest will never truly fade. For those visiting Serbia, especially its wilder, more remote parts, understanding the Drekavac is to truly connect with the soul of a land where ancient beliefs still hold sway.
Visiting Tometino Polje
Tometino Polje is a region known for its natural beauty, but it’s also where the Drekavac’s legend feels most alive. If you dare to venture into this enigmatic part of Serbia, here’s what you should know.
How to get there: Tometino Polje is located in western Serbia, near the town of Požega. The easiest way to reach the area is by car, which allows for greater flexibility in exploring the more remote sections. From Belgrade, it’s approximately a 2-hour drive. Public transport to the smaller villages might be infrequent, so planning ahead is crucial.
What to expect on arrival: This is a rural, agricultural area, not a major tourist destination. Expect quiet villages, vast expanses of forest, and winding country roads. There are no dedicated ”Drekavac tours,” so your exploration will be independent. Respect local customs and private property. If you plan to hike or spend time in the forests, inform someone of your plans and be prepared for wilderness conditions. Cell phone signal might be unreliable in some areas.
Best time to visit: The forests are most inviting during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the scenery is vibrant with new growth or autumnal colours. Summer can be hot, and winter brings snow, making access and exploration more challenging. Nocturnal visits, while perhaps more thrilling for those seeking the Drekavac, are generally not recommended without local guidance due to the rugged terrain and isolation.
For the intrepid explorer, Tometino Polje offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a living legend. Listen closely to the rustle of the leaves and the distant sounds of the night – you might just hear the mournful cry of the Drekavac, a chilling reminder of Serbia’s untamed mysteries.