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La Siguanaba
A beautiful woman by a river at night. She calls to unfaithful men. When they approach, her face transforms into a horse's skull. La Siguanaba drives them to madness or death.
Ancient - Present
Central America
1000+ witnesses
La Siguanaba is a supernatural figure from Central American folklore, appearing as a beautiful woman who transforms into a monster.
The Legend
According to documented folklore:
La Siguanaba:
- Appears as a beautiful woman
- Near rivers, washing clothes
- Lures unfaithful men
- Transforms when they approach
- Drives victims mad
Description
She appears as:
- A beautiful, long-haired woman
- Often naked or in white
- By water at night
- When close, reveals her true face
- A horse skull or rotting corpse
The Transformation
Upon approach:
- Her face transforms
- Into a horse skull
- Or horrific corpse
- Victims go mad
- Some die of fright
Protection
To escape La Siguanaba:
- Bite a cross or machete
- Shout “María pata de gallina” (Mary chicken foot)
- Don’t look at her
- Not being an unfaithful man helps
Similar Figures
Related to:
- La Llorona
- Various water spirits
- Punishment legends for men