Legend of The Basket Woman Ghost of Cali

In Cali, there are many myths and legends. Among these tales, the legend of The Basket Woman stands out particularly. This peculiar specter usually inflicts punishments on gossiping women.

According to the legend, back when there was no public lighting in the city, the footsteps of a woman could often be heard late at night. Curious to know who was wandering in the shadows, women would peek out their windows to look. They would see an old woman carrying a canasto (a woven basket), but she would soon disappear into the darkness.

(Read also: Legend of La Sayona (The Vengeful Spirit of Gossiping Women))

When the curious woman closed her window, she would suddenly hear knocks at her door. Eager to satisfy their curiosity, these women would run to open their doors. There, they would find the old woman, who would pull a large candle from her worn-out basket and hand it to them.

However, before leaving, the old woman would warn them that the candle was meant to keep them company during their vigil. When the women went to light the candle, they were shocked to discover that it was actually a bone covered in wax. Worst of all, it was one of their very own bones.

Origin of the Legend

This legend originates in Cali, in the Valle del Cauca department. It dates back to the times before electric lighting existed. The story likely emerged as a way to warn people about the evils of gossiping.

Is La Mujer del Canasto a Myth or a Legend?

This story is considered a legend because it features a character set within a real historical space. Therefore, the events are presumed to have some truth to them, even if the fantastic elements of the tale cannot be completely verified.