In the previous post in this section, we discussed the most popular Peruvian legends in the Andes and the Jungle. However, the third major region in Peru the coast is also no exception. Join us as we explore the myths and stories surrounding the Peruvian coast, some more fascinating and spookier than others. Let’s dive in!
Matusita House
The intriguing “Casa Matusita” tale dates back to the 19th century, when the Matsushita Family, coming from Japan to settle in Lima started to feel strange and unsettling occurrences. The father’s distress led him to treat his household and staff poorly.
In retaliation, the butler and maid took drastic measures, resulting in a tragic end for him. The father killed all of his family, and his staff entered a mental health facility. Interestingly, the house survived a fire they attempted to start
In another version of the story, the father discovers that his wife has been cheating on him. Overcome with anger, he tragically takes her life and, in a moment of despair, also harms his children before ending his own.
A different story suggests that the father’s harsh treatment drove his staff to act against him by adding hallucinogens to his food. Although “Casa Matusita” was demolished almost ten years ago, the stories regarding the mystery and fear of this house remain alive until today an urban legend.
Cachiche Witches
Cachiche is a small town in the Ica region, south of Lima. This tranquil town is popular for being a “witches town.” Locals share stories of women with special abilities who could heal illnesses, create love spells, and bring joy to the healthy.
One of the most enchanting spots in Cachiche is the famous Seven-Headed Palm Tree. This special tree has roots that look like a petrified snake and is full of intriguing legends. According to local lore, Julia Hernández Pecho, a well-known witch in Cachiche, made a prediction.
She said that if the palm tree’s seventh head were to grow back, Ica would face flooding. In 1998, after heavy rains caused flooding from the Cachiche River, some people felt Julia’s prediction had come true. Since then, the community has worked together to trim and care for the tree’s seventh head to keep their town safe.
Cachiche also features a lovely statue of Julia and a grove of carob trees. Locals believe that the spirits of ancient witches rest there, transformed into trees. Cachiche is full of stories and beliefs about the ancestral witches’ unique heritage.
Ai Apaec, the Beheader
The Mochica people held a special place in their hearts for a god named “Ai Apaec”, who was both revered and feared. People think he was the creator of all things and the protector of their civilization, providing essential water and food. Before battles, the Mochica honored Ai Apaec looking for his favor.
After winning battles, they would offer sacrifices to him, like prisoners’ beheading. One of the most famous images of Ai Apaec can be found in the beautiful murals of the Huacas de la Luna and the Sun. In these artworks, his depiction is human-faced with feline fangs, surrounded by sea waves.
Metalwork shows Ai Apaec in a spider form, with eight legs and a human-like face featuring feline fangs. On ceramics, he is often seen holding two heads and sometimes has two snakes emerging from his head. This god was a key figure in the pre-Columbian world, greatly valued by the Mochica people.
However, as the Mochica civilization declined, his worship faded and other deities in Peru replaced him. Interestingly, Ai Apaec may not have been his actual name, as it translates to “the maker” in the Muchik language.
The Golden Seahorse
The story of The Golden Seahorse unfolds in a charming fishing village, where a lovely woman named Glicina lives. One night, a mysterious sailor visits her, and they share a memorable evening. However, when dawn breaks, he mysteriously disappears.
After three years, three months, three weeks, and three days, Glicina feels a strong urge to journey south along the shore. As she travels, several villagers kindly caution her about a fantastical figure known as the “Golden Seahorse”. An old pearl diver warns her that the seahorse will come for “a cup of her blood.”
Next, a coral fisherman says the seahorse will look for “her eyes.” Finally, a young carp fisherman tells her that the Golden Seahorse wants “the peach blossom of the two almonds.”Despite these warnings, Glicina is encouraged in her quest to find the Golden Seahorse. When she arrives at the shore, she sees unusual events anticipating the seahorse’s arrival.
Eventually, the Golden Seahorse appears before her, weeping tears. Glicina gently asks him why he is sad, and he reveals that he is an unhappy king, unable to find true happiness despite his power. This intriguing story dives into mystery and strange signs, emphasizing Glicina’s quest for answers. The Golden Seahorse symbolizes deep longing and shows how enormous strength can’t guarantee fulfillment.
The Huacachina Legend
Huacachina is the only oasis in South America, and it also holds fascinating legends. According to legend, a beautiful Inca princess possessed a magical mirror. While combing her hair and admiring her reflection, a young warrior surprised her.
Feeling frightened, she ran away and accidentally dropped her mirror. This mirror turned into the beautiful lagoon we now cherish as Huacachina. According to the legend, she immersed herself in the water, transforming into a mermaid who continues to grace the oasis today.
Another version tells of the princess grieving for her lover. Her tears filled the lagoon, and she gently disappeared into the waters, yet her spirit remained to watch over this special place. In this tale, the oasis was born from the tears of a young maiden from Tacara village.
Peruvian myths and legends are an important part of indigenous peoples and all Peruvians. We encourage you to visit the places where these stories take action, so you can learn further details and watch the beauty of our territory.
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