Written by the students: Carla, Leo G., Nel, Valeria, Tomás, & Alex – IES Montevil –  from Spain

Many years ago, the Celts inhabited the north of the Iberian Peninsula, and many strange events they could not explain led them to create what we now know as Asturian mythology. Through these stories, they tried to understand the mysteries of nature and everyday life. One of the most famous mythological beings is the Trasgu , a small house hold goblin blamed whenever food disappeared or important objects went missing. This creature became a symbol of absentmindedness, disorder, and the mysterious loss of necessary items, and although mischievous, it was not considered dangerous.

 Another important figure in Asturian mythology is the Cuélebre, a dragon-like creature with a long, snake-shaped body and wings. According to legend, it demanded a young maiden from the villagers from time to time, threatening to destroy the village if they refused. Its skin was said to be so tough that it could only be killed by feeding it a loaf of bread filled with nails, which harmed it from the inside. This story reflects the fear of natural dangers and the need to find clever solutions to survive.

 The Güestia is one of the most terrifying legends and is traditionally told to children on All Souls’ Night. It describes a procession of eight wandering souls, led by a guide, who visit the houses where someone is about to die. Their purpose is to collect new souls to join their ghostly march. People believed that if someone encountered the Güestia, they had to draw a circle with a cross or a star inside it to protect themselves from being taken.

 The Xanas are also central to Asturian folklore. They are beautiful fairy-like women who live near rivers, springs, and fountains. While the clothes they wash are drying, they sing and dance, showing their elegance and magical nature. Sometimes they are kind and help people with their injuries or illnesses, but they can also be cruel, stealing human babies and replacing them with their own children, known as xaninos. These