Kallikantzaros is a mailicious goblin-like creature in Greek and Cypriot folklore...
The Kallikantzaroi dwell underground and saw the roots of the world tree, so that it will eventually collapse and destroy the earth....
The Kallikantzaroi come to the surface from December 25 to January 6, (from the winter solstice for a fortnight during which time the sun ceases its seasonal movement).
The Kallikantzaroi are creatures of the night and their name is propably derived from Its name is possibly derived from "kalos-kentauros"...
There is no standard appearance of Kallikantzaroi, there are regional differences on their appearance.
Some tales have pictured them with some animal parts, like hairy bodies, horse legs, or boar tusks, sometimes enormous, other times diminutive.
Others show them as humans of small size smelling horribly.
They are predominantly male, often with protruding sex characteristics.
Other folktales dsiplay the Kallikantzaroi as tall, black fur and/or skin, pointy ears, and a face that represents a dog.
There were ways people could protect themselves during the days when the Kallikantzaroi were loose.
They could leave a colander on their doorstep: If a Kallikantzaros approached for his evildoings, he would instead decide to sit and count the holes until the sun rose and he was forced to hide.
The Kallikantzaroi also could not count above two, since three is a holy number, and by pronouncing it, they would kill themselves.
Another method of protection is to leave the fire burning in the fireplace all night so that they cannot enter through there...
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