Colombia, like every country, has its legends and myths. Some are inspiring or fascinating, such as the globally known El Dorado legend. Others are more sinister. The following protagonists are fantastic and feared characters in Colombia’s history. Rooted in deep human fears and local dramas, these legends are among the scariest told in Colombia.
The Patasola, the wandering woman
One of the most well-known legends is that of La Patasola. This mournful spirit is said to be the ghost of a woman who lost her children due to a tragic love affair. Known as “The Patasola” because she walks on one foot, her long braided hair, large eyes, and gaping mouth add to her terrifying appearance.
The story goes that she was married to a peasant and had three children. One day, her husband returned from work to find her being unfaithful. In a fit of rage and jealousy, he killed her lover and cut off her leg as she tried to flee. She died shortly after, and the peasant burned down their house and took the children far away. Since then, the haunted soul of La Patasola has wandered the earth, eternally searching for her lost children.
Her statue stands in Melgar, Tolima, a testament to her enduring legend. Locals believe she lives in the dense jungle thickets and high peaks of the plains.
The Muelona, Colombia’s scariest legend
Another eerie tale is that of La Muelona, also known as “Colmillona”. This spirit is depicted as a woman with long hair, large eyes, and a terrifying set of teeth. The legend says she was once a girl named “La Maga,” who could predict the future, liberate women, and punish men. On her deathbed, neighbors claimed to hear her vowing revenge against unfaithful, drunken, and immoral men.
Her spirit is said to appear along the paths, especially at dusk. Initially, she appears as a seductive woman, luring men towards her. However, when they come close, she reveals her horse-like teeth, scaring them away and sometimes punishing them.
Juan Machete, the man who sold his soul
In the Orinoquia region, the story of Juan Machete is widely known. His real name was Juan Francisco Ortiz, and it is said he made a pact with the Devil to become the richest and most powerful man in the Eastern Plains. The Devil agreed but demanded Juan’s wife and young children in return. Juan accepted, and soon his wealth multiplied with more land, money, and livestock. One morning, he noticed a large black bull with white hooves among his cattle, an animal he had never seen before.
Despite his efforts, he couldn’t remove the mysterious bull from his land. As his fortune continued to grow, so did his unease. One day, his cattle and wealth began to vanish as if by magic. Repentant of his pact with the Devil, Juan buried his remaining money and disappeared into the savannah. Some say his ghost still roams the area, spewing fire.
El Silbón: The Whistler
The legend of El Silbon, or The Whistler, originates from Santander. This vengeful spirit was condemned to wander for killing his parents. He haunts the earth, walking with a bag containing his parents’ bones.
This spirit always tries to confuse mortals. If you hear his whistling loudly, it means he is far away. Hearing it from afar means he is actually right next to you. The spirit is afraid of whips, dogs, and chili—three elements used in his execution. He was whipped, his wounds were covered with hot chili, and he was given to be eaten alive by dogs.