Caves of Zugarramurdi

Navarra · Spain · Natural site

In the witch caves by the Stream of Hell were held the covens that in 1610 sparked Spain's greatest witch trial – and the pyres of Logroño.

Through the vast cave at Zugarramurdi runs the Olabidea stream, known locally as Infernuko erreka – the Stream of Hell. Here the witches of the region were said to hold their akelarres, nocturnal sabbaths of dancing and black masses, which in 1610 led to the Inquisition's infamous trial at Logroño, the largest witch trial in Spanish history. Some thirty villagers were accused of pacts with the devil, of raising storms and bewitching livestock; at the auto-da-fé of November 1610 six were burned alive and five in effigy, while others had already died in prison. Today the victims are remembered in the village's witch museum, and every midsummer bonfires are lit once more in the cave where the sabbaths were said to take place.

FAQ

Where is Caves of Zugarramurdi located?

Caves of Zugarramurdi is in Navarra, Spain.

More haunted places in Navarra

Accounts are drawn from local folklore and visitor reports.