Description

From haunted barrows to ruined castles, Britain’s landscape is rich with tales of hidden treasure – stories not just of gold, but of ghosts, curses and forbidden knowledge. Treasures on Earth gathers hundreds of these traditions for the first time, showing how folklore, shaped by local memory and longing, has imagined wealth not merely as currency, but as power, danger and loss. These legends tell of dragons, demons and seekers armed with spells, but also of real hopes stirred by poverty, war and the mysteries of place. Through vivid storytelling and careful insight, this book reveals how treasure lore carries the emotional weight of history. In the end, these are stories not just about what is buried, but about why we still yearn to uncover it.

Publisher Review

“Treasures on Earth is an evocative portrait of the landscapes inhabited by our forebears . . . [a] beguiling survey.” – Christopher Hart, Mail on Sunday
“Jeremy Harte is one of Britain’s leading folklorists, and probably the most perceptive and humane, as well as erudite. All these virtues are displayed to the full in this book, which is a treat for readers at any level of knowledge.” – Ronald Hutton, Professor of History, University of Bristol, and author of The Witch: A History of Fear, from Ancient Times to the Present
“Treasures on Earth is a captivating exploration of the myths, legends and historical accounts surrounding buried treasures across Britain. Jeremy Harte delves into the human fascination with hidden wealth, weaving together folklore, archaeology and cultural history to examine how stories of treasure troves, guarded by supernatural beings like demons, fairies and ghosts, have evolved over centuries, reflecting societal values, fears and aspirations. This book is not just a collection of stories but a thoughtful analysis of how legends are shaped by history, geography and human imagination. Harte’s engaging narrative and meticulous research make this book a treasure in itself, a perfect read for anyone interested in folklore, history and the enduring allure of hidden riches.” – Simon Costin, Founder and Director, Museum of British Folklore