Unicorns

Unicorns are one of the most beloved mythical creatures ever. They look like beautiful white horses with a single horn on their foreheads. Legends say they had magical healing powers. People have told stories about unicorns for thousands of years.

Unicorns Through History

Ancient Greek writers were some of the first to describe unicorns. They thought unicorns were real animals that lived in India. In the Middle Ages, people believed unicorn horns could cure sickness. Kings would pay huge sums for what they thought were unicorn horns.

Unicorns in Different Cultures

Many cultures have their own unicorn legends. The Chinese qilin is a gentle creature that appears during times of peace. The Scottish coat of arms features a unicorn. In many stories, unicorns could only be tamed by someone who was pure of heart.

Fun Facts

• Scotland's national animal is the unicorn.
• Most 'unicorn horns' sold in the Middle Ages were actually narwhal tusks.
• A group of unicorns is called a 'blessing.'

Did You Know?

The narwhal, a real whale that lives in the Arctic, has a long spiral tusk that looks just like a unicorn horn. Viking traders sold narwhal tusks as unicorn horns for enormous prices in medieval Europe!