Hippocamp, or Hippocampus, is a mythological creature shared by Phoenician and Greek mythology which supposedly looks like a seahorse.
In Greek mythology, Hippocamps were the mounts for Poseidon, the god of sea; whereas Neptune (Roman version of Poseidon) was often described to be riding on sea-chariot pulled by hippocamps.
Hippocamps were often used in traditional artworks and sculptures in Roman’s fountains and public baths; some of these arts can still be seen places like England’s Roman Baths (pic) and Italy’s Trevi Fountain.
The mythological creature still has its influence in modern days. Hippocamps are featured quite often in fantasy story books – including the famous Harry Potter – and also in various fantasy games like Dungeons & Dragons etc.
The first recorded sighting of Nessie dates back to 565AD… but the whole monster-fever probably started in 1934 when the infamous Surgeon’s Photo (pic) was published and shocked the world.