Legend of the stolen eyes of La Virgen de Yanaconas

The legend of the stolen eyes of La Virgen de Yanaconas (The Virgin of Yanaconas Statue in Cali, Colombia) is one of the most famous stories in the region. It recounts not only the theft of valuable emeralds but also the harsh punishment imposed on a young priest following this event.

Just a few minutes from Cali, on the road to Pichindé, stands the imposing figure of Our Lady of the Andes. She is popularly known as La Virgen de Yanaconas. This monumental statue, created by sculptor Marcelino Vallejo, rises above the Western Andes mountain range. It offers a spectacular view of the capital of the Valle del Cauca department.

(Read also: Legend of La Mano del Negro (The Ghostly Black Hand of Loma de la Cruz))

One of the most famous stories surrounding this sculpture dates back to 1685. At that time, the Virgin’s eyes were adorned with two impressively large emeralds. The legend says that one afternoon, the young priest in charge of guarding the statue was mysteriously murdered. The valuable gems that made the Virgin’s gaze shine disappeared without a trace.

Since then, tales from locals and travelers passing through this road describe the exact same scene. At six in the evening, right at the time for Mass, a young priest appears. He asks for a ride from vehicles heading toward La Virgen de Yanaconas. However, those who agree to pick him up claim he vanishes as soon as he gets into the vehicle. This leaves drivers with a deeply unsettling feeling.

(Read also: Legend of El Sacerdote sin Cabeza (The Headless Priest Phantom of Colombia))

It remains unknown whether this wandering spirit is still searching for the thieves who stole the emeralds. Perhaps his soul is trapped on the mountain as punishment for a possible connection to the crime. What is certain is that this apparition has endured over time. It fuels the mystery that surrounds La Virgen de Yanaconas and her history of betrayal and loss, becoming an iconic part of the myths and legends of the Valle del Cauca department.