One of the greatest treasures to discover in San Blas, is the fantastic cultural heritage of this beautiful port, due to the importance this place has had since ancient times, here are some of the legends that are told around the streets:
1) The Contaduría Monk
It is said that the Fort of San Basilio, located on the Contaduría hill is one of the places where more battles occurred throughout the history of San Blas; even the hero priest Jose Maria Mercado died after falling down of the ravine during a betrayal, so it is common for people to hear voices or see shadows wandering the surrounding area.
What catches most the attention of those who have worked here at night, is the appearance of an alleged monk who watches over the entire access area, several people have indicated that while walking, they are followed by horses and wagons, which they can hear but cannot be seen.
Photo via Jason Goldman on Flickr.
2) The Origin of Life
According to the Huichol legend, Tatei Haramara, now known as Playa del Rey is the source of all life, this is because the sea is considered “Our Mother” and was the place of departure for ancient gods to undertake the sacred path to Wirikuta in the desert of San Luis Potosi.
The famous white stone in front of that beach is, for wixarika culture, the physical form of the same goddess Haramara and the very first solid object in the world. The sea goddess strikes this rock to become steam, and gives rise to clouds and rain. This is one of the most sacred sites for Huichol and Cora people.
Photo via Mediakit.
3) The Pirates of Matanchén
Due to the strategic location of the port of San Blas, our shores were constantly besieged by pirates and buccaneers who sought to take possession of the valuable goods coming from the Far East. These pirates were mainly from England and Holland, enemies of the Spanish Crown.
Matanchén Bay, with its low and calm waters, was the place where most pirates intercepted the Spanish ships. One of the most famous pirates was the Englishman John Clipperton who used to take his stolen treasures to the Passion Island, located south of the Mexican Revillagigedo Archipelago, so it is said, that there are endless riches buried deep in San Blas’ ocean.
Photo via Mediakit.
Did you already know these stories? You probably have some other interesting legends to tell, share them with us and follow this blog, because in San Blas there is still #AllToBeDiscovered.
