The Castro of Coaña and the Legend of the Mouros
In Asturias, the Castro of Coaña is a pre-Roman site enveloped in a persistent popular narrative. Oral tradition claims that beneath its stone walls lie not only ancient vestiges, but also the mouros, beings of magical nature. It is believed that these invisible guardians protect incredible fortunes in secret galleries underground. The popular tale explains that these beings only allow a glimpse of their realm at very specific moments, thus fusing history with local myth. 🏛️
The Moment of Revelation
The central date in this myth is St. John's Night. On this summer solstice, imbued with symbolism, it is said that the mouros can open access to their domain. People who approach the castro on that special night sometimes distinguish a golden glow emerging from the depths, a sign of the treasure they protect. However, this glow is not an offer, but a test. The legend warns that coveting has a huge cost in this context.
Key Elements of the Warning:- The golden light acts as a test, not an invitation.
- The tradition emphasizes the high price of greed in this sacred place.
- The phenomenon is linked exclusively to the magical power of the summer solstice.
If someone, attracted by the gold's shine, decides to cross the threshold and enter the Mouros' tunnels, their fate is sealed.
The Eternal Consequence
The traditional tale includes a clear lesson about the dangers of coveting what belongs to others. If an individual, seduced by the precious metal's gleam, chooses to cross the boundary and enter the mouros' galleries, their future is defined forever. The narrative holds that these intruders are trapped perpetually in that underground world, losing their connection to the realm of the living. This outcome serves as a warning that spans eras, deterring the imprudent and preserving the site's enigma.
Details of the Captivity Myth:- The intruder is confined irreversibly in the underground realm.
- All ties to the surface world are lost.
- The legend serves as a generational deterrent mechanism.
A Celebration with Caution
Therefore, venturing into the Castro of Coaña during St. John's Night with the intention of finding the treasure does not seem the best strategy to enjoy the shortest night of the year. Unless, of course, your idea of entertainment includes becoming a permanent ornament inside an enchanted chamber. The legend of the mouros endures as a bridge between the tangible past and the intangible folklore, reminding us that some mysteries prefer to remain unsolved. 🔒