The last flames of the immense fire that killed Pyrene died out, and the snow covered everything. But with the thaw, life began to return to the forest. Little by little, green meadows emerged, and beautiful flowers bloomed. The rivers regained their energy, and the mountain lakes filled up. Animals and the balance of nature returned.
People also began to build villages and settle in the valleys. At the same time, giants arrived, drawn by the beauty of these mountains. However, they were beings feared and despised by the gods, so they lived in hiding.
One of these giants was named Netú. He was known for being evil and had a terrible temper. Although he lived lost in the mountains with his sheep, no one dared to cross his path. Woe to anyone who did.
Legend has it that one day, a beggar appeared in the Benasque Valley. He was very hardworking and quickly earned the affection of the local people. He told stories to both young and old and made great friendships. However, after a few months, he decided to continue his journey.
The people of the valley warned him about Netú, but the beggar continued on his way and ventured into the valley. After several days of travel, his water and food ran out. In the distance, he spotted a flock of sheep. Confident, he approached.
Suddenly, the giant Netú appeared—it was his flock. Instead of running away, the beggar, kind and humble, decided to ask for help. But the giant, true to his bad temper and greed, refused. He would not give him water or food. «You’re lucky I let you leave alive,» he said.
The beggar, surprised by such greed, calmly replied, «Your heart is as hard as stone—may your entire body turn to rock.»
At that very moment, Netú watched as his body began to petrify. Within seconds, he was transformed into a great rock. And what we know today as the summit of Aneto is, in fact, Netú turned to stone.
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