The Tabudo

Many years ago, the owner of a magnificent mansion went for a sail on a crafted raft near Teopan Island in Coatepeque Lake. Unfortunately, he was dragged by an underground current to the domains of the Goddess Itzqueyé of the Freshwaters. On this day, his life changed forever, and no one saw him alive again.

A few months later, he reappeared to the people who took care of his property and inherited it. They were perplexed by what they saw, his legs had lengthened, and his lips had widened, transforming him completely. He only smiled, thanked them for all that they did, said goodbye, and vanished in front of their eyes. They never saw him again.

Nowadays, many people agree, that his spirit enchants Coatepeque Lake, and they call it: “The Tabudo.” They describe him as a good spirit who presents himself as a small being to all fishermen, but little by little, it becomes bigger and bigger. Later, he sits in the front of their rafts when they notice something uncommon his legs surpass his same head (figure 1)! Most of them are so afraid that they flee as fast as they can!

Figure 1. The Tabudo.

However, the few brave ones who spoke with him, and were not afraid of his presence captured abundant fish more than ever in their lives.

 Inspired by ESA123.com’s version.

Credits:
¹ Ruta del Tabudo
Location: Coatepeque, El Salvador

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