Snagovian Native Faith

Snagovian Native Faith
Credința Nativă Snagoveană Снаговски Родна Вяра
Traditional symbol of the Snagovian Native Faith
Abbreviation	SNF
Type	Ethnic religion
Classification	Thracian religion Slavic Native Faith Tengrism
Scripture	Oral tradition
Șamanul Snagovului	Ștefan Marius Snagoveanu
Region	Snagov
Language	Romanian Bulgarian
Headquarters	Siliștea
Founder	Sneguv
Origin	c. 6th century Forests of Vlăsia
Members	Unknown

The Snagovian Native Faith (Romanian: Credința Nativă Snagoveană) is the ethnic religion of the Snagovian people. Originally an oral tradition, efforts to standardize and preserve the faith began in 2024. The movement is led by Ștefan Marius Snagoveanu, who self-proclaimed himself as the "Shaman of all of Snagov". The Snagovian Native Faith is monotheistic, combining elements of Tengrism and the nature worship of the Slavic Native Faith. Certain legends and beliefs in the Snagovian native religion are said to be older than both Turkic and Slavic arrivals in the region, thus belonging to the Thracians.

Legends

Sneguv

Sneguv is the legendary founder of the Snagovian people. According to the tale, Sneguv was a local Thraco-Slavic child who earned the nickname "Sneguv," meaning "of snow," because he was playing on the snowy ice of Lake Snagov at a time when local Thraco-Slavs and invading Bulgars were on the brink of conflict. His innocence helped to ease the tensions between the two groups, leading to a peaceful agreement and the eventual merging of the Thraco-Slavs and Bulgars into the Snagovian people. Sneguv’s story is remembered as a symbol of unity and peace, honoring the child whose simple presence helped forge a new identity for the people in the region. Sneguv remained a beloved local legend even into his old age. He lived out his days peacefully, spending his time on the shore of Lake Snagov, which was named in his honor. His simple approach to life and enduring peaceful presence became a cherished part of local lore, symbolizing the unity and harmony he had inspired in his youth.

Kiril

A depiction of Kiril as seen on the emblem of Snagov.

Kiril is a legendary white double-headed eagle with a red beak and red claws, important to the Snagovian people. He is seen as a spiritual guide who appears in the sky whenever the Snagovian nation faces threats from foreign empires and hardships. According to the stories, Kiril’s appearance in the sky during difficult times is a sign of divine protection. The people believe that the eagle was sent by God to watch over them and helps to inspire strength and unity in times of danger. Kiril’s legend is a powerful symbol of the resilience and spirit of the Snagovian people.

Saldas/Zlaten

Saldas, which is also called Zlaten in modern times, is a legendary blue dragon that is believed to live under Lake Snagov. This legend became well-known because the shape of the lake resembles a dragon, with its long, curvy body and many "tails". The main island in the lake is in the area where, looking from above, the dragon's eye would be. It is believed that Saldas helps keep the lake full of water forever through its underground springs. The Snagovian people are said to be blessed by Saldas, making them very agile and fast swimmers in the lake.

Beliefs

Mystique of Lake Snagov

According to local lore, Lake Snagov is believed to possess a mysterious allure, especially affecting foreigners. Even if they are strong swimmers elsewhere, non-natives often encounter unexpected difficulties in the lake, leading to exhaustion, panic attacks, and, in some cases, drowning. Meanwhile, the native population swims and navigates the waters with ease. Legend suggests that a strange force drives outsiders to enter the lake, even when they are aware of the danger. Many who attempt to swim are overwhelmed and become entangled in thick underwater vegetation. Though some are rescued, others are lost to the depths. Each year, handfuls of people lose their lives in Lake Snagov’s dangerous waters.