The Legend of the Malena Lizard in Jaén
In the province of Jaén, a traditional tale speaks of a huge reptilian beast that spread panic. This creature inhabited the caves and springs of the Santa Catalina hill, attacking and devouring those who approached, including people and farm animals. Terror spread among the neighbors, who sought without success to find a way to end this danger. The outlook seemed desperate until a brave figure emerged willing to face the monster. 🐉
A Clever Plan to End the Threat
A knight, whose name changes depending on who tells the story, devises a brilliant strategy to defeat the animal. He obtains a sheepskin and fills it thoroughly with gunpowder. Then, he closes the opening with stitching to seal the contents inside. He places the bait under the sun, near the creature's lair, and waits. The lizard, upon detecting the scent, leaves its refuge and swallows the skin in one bite.
Key Details of the Strategy:- The bait is made with a lambskin completely filled with gunpowder.
- It is placed near the entrance of the lair to attract the animal.
- The beast gulps it down quickly, unsuspectingly of the contents.
Some skeptics point out that, if the lizard was so clever to avoid traps, it should perhaps have suspected a lamb that smelled of sulfur and saltpeter.
The Final Outcome of the Feat
After ingesting the fake lamb, the lizard returns to its cave. The gunpowder in its belly explodes due to the body heat and gastric juices, ending the animal's life. The knight receives the honors of hero from the people of Jaén, who regain their peace. This story is passed from parents to children as part of the cultural heritage of the area, explaining how the name Barranco del Lagarto originated.
Consequences and Legacy:- The internal explosion finishes off the creature in its own cave.
- The population celebrates the knight as their savior.
- The story endures to explain a very specific local toponym.
Reflection on the Myth
This narrative is rooted in Andalusian folklore, blending elements of terror with an ingenious resolution. Beyond its veracity, it serves as a traditional explanation for a geographical place and reflects the human desire to conquer the unknown. The legend invites reflection on how communities create stories to make sense of their environment and history. 🏞️