The Pyrenees are a land of legends and an infinite cultural richness. Ancient rites and traditions have withstood the test of time and remain alive to this day. One of the most visible of these is the «espantabruxas.» Placed atop the chimneys of houses, they are a tangible legacy of a millennia-old worldview that you can discover on our trips in the Spanish Pyrenees.
The «espantabruxas» are decorative elements or symbols placed on chimneys. Traditionally, they were carved from tosca, a very light and porous type of rock. Additionally, they often feature small openings that produce a whistling sound when the wind blows through them. You can see them at our Hotel Casa Muria.
The Legend
The presence of witches and sorcerers is a constant theme in Pyrenean tradition. It is said that every night, these mysterious beings roamed the streets of villages, casting spells and causing mischief. This created a need to protect homes.
Doorways were safeguarded with symbols like thistles, but a solution was needed for the one part of the house that always remained open: the chimneys. Thus, the «espantabruxas» were born, designed in various forms to ward off the malevolent spirits of the night.
Moreover, chimneys played a vital social role in the lives of mountain dwellers. The hearth was the place where families gathered every evening to talk and share stories—an essential hub for cultural transmission.
Discover them with our exclusive Hiking and Cultural Tours in the Spanish Pyrenees, specially designed for you.
