They spark both fear and fascination. Now, an ancient piece of writing, known as the 1676 devil letter written by a possessed nun, has been translated to shed light on a chilling chapter of history.

having spent the night writing letters. Maria, who had been at the convent since she was 15, is believed to have been screaming and fainting while writing the notes, which she said the devil ...

The sister, named Maria Crocifissa della Concezione, said the letter was penned by the devil himself, in a bid to get her to turn away from God towards evil, according to historical records.