The Fireballs of Nejapa

On November 3rd, 1658, there was a massive eruption in the San Salvador Volcano. The residents of the surroundings didn't expect it. The volcano had been inactive for centuries. Even the local Amerindians were shocked by such a catastrophic event. They thought this would be the end of their lives.

What nobody knew is that at the top of the volcano, a battle was happening. Saint Jerome and the devil were fighting. The devil wanted to erase every Christian, living in the surroundings and Saint Jerome wanted to protect them. Saint Jerome had been chosen as their protector.

After several hours, Saint Jerome stopped the devil, but at a great cost. The large majority of the most Christian town was gone for good. The lava covered the entire town.

Saint Jerome from heaven guided the residents of the destroyed town to a new location. They called it, Nejapa which in Nawatl means, "River of Ashes." In this place, they started a new life, and they called this eruption, 'El Playón'.

Presently, the residents of Nejapa have a tradition every 31st of August. During this day, the locals celebrate Nejapense Youth Day, where youngers (wearing some protection) play with fireballs (figure 1) as a memory of that event.

Figure 1. Alejandro holding the Olivar Flower. ¹

Inspired by Notiamérica's version.

Location: Nejapa, El Salvador

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