The Güestia: the procession of souls that travels the roads of Asturias
When the deepest night falls over Asturias, the ancient royal roads and paths awaken. It is not a common awakening, but one populated by shadows and whispers. A silent procession of wandering spirits, dressed in shrouds and carrying flickering candles, advances unhurriedly along these routes. Whoever encounters this cortege perceives a chilling atmosphere and hears the wind seeming to articulate words. 👻
A living guide for the deceased
What distinguishes this apparition is its leader. It is not a specter who leads, but a living human being, trapped in a perpetual curse. His fate is to wander endlessly, guiding the souls that find no peace. He will only be freed if he manages to get another living person to take his place, a tragic relay that keeps the cycle of terror alive. It is said that this guide knows every corner of the territory and that his mere presence foretells calamities.
Characteristics of the procession:- Procession formed by restless souls with shrouds and candles.
- Led by a condemned mortal, not a spirit.
- Advances in complete silence, cooling the air in its path.
"If one night you hear slow footsteps on a solitary road and see flickering lights in the distance, remember the legend."
An omen of fatality
The Güestia does not wander aimlessly. Its trajectory has a sinister meaning. If the procession passes in front of a dwelling or stops at its door, it is interpreted as a clear sign: soon someone who lives there will die. The rumor of its footsteps, the dim glow of its flames, or the mere sensation of its proximity were enough to unleash panic in the villages. For this reason, in times past people avoided going out after nightfall or traveling those paths, for fear of encountering the entourage or, even worse, noticing that it was heading toward their own home.
Signs of its presence:- The cortege stops or passes in front of a house.
- Slow footsteps are heard without seeing anyone.
- Faint lights are observed moving in the distance.
- A sudden sensation of cold and oppression.
An encounter that would change your destiny
In the face of a possible encounter with the Güestia, tradition suggests caution. Fleeing is not always the wisest option. Perhaps the pertinent thing is to reflect if one is prepared for a journey without return. Many in Asturias would add that saying a prayer is never too much, just in case. This legend, more than a simple ghost story, is a reminder of the deep respect and fear that the night and the mysteries it hid inspired. 🕯️