Mythology is the soul of humanity's storytelling—a bridge that connects our distant past to our present, shaping how we understand the world around us. Through myths, we find not just stories, but reflections of human hope, fear, and the eternal search for meaning in landscapes that are as real as they are magical. From towering peaks that touch the sky to hidden cities lost in the sands of time, each location in mythology holds a special significance. These places are more than just settings for grand tales—they are symbols of cultural identity, spirituality, and the relationship between people and the natural world. In this volume, Mythic Realms: Lost Cities, Sacred Waters, and Mystical Lands of Legend, we embark on a journey across time and space, venturing into the realms that have captivated the imaginations of countless generations. From the lost rivers and cities of ancient civilizations to the sacred waters and mystical lands where gods once walked, this collection offers readers a chance to explore the sacred geographies that have shaped the myths of diverse cultures around the world. These places, though some may be forgotten in the sands of history or cloaked in mystery, are imbued with stories that remain timeless. Each chapter invites you to immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of these mythical sites, to feel the awe and reverence that our ancestors felt when they stood in these places—real or imagined—and gazed at the world with wonder. As with the previous books in this series, this volume seeks not only to recount the stories of these sacred locations but to explore the profound connections between myth, culture, and the landscapes that have inspired them. Whether it’s the divine rivers of ancient Asia, the enchanted islands of Polynesia, or the lost cities of Greece and Egypt, these sacred spaces serve as gateways to deeper understanding—not just of mythology, but of the human spirit itself. I hope that as you turn these pages, you’ll feel the pull of these places, the ancient call of stories that have been passed down through generations. May this journey through lost cities, sacred waters, and mystical lands inspire the same sense of wonder and connection that has drawn humanity to these places for millennia. Happy reading, and may your exploration of these mythic realms leave you with a greater appreciation of the stories that live within us all. Hung Nguyen
