Corn Islands Legend: The Lady in White at Mayaya Rock

Long ago, during the days when pirate ships docked near Corn Island, treasure was hidden beneath the island’s soil. But gold doesn’t guard itself. The pirates would force enslaved people to carry the treasure inland, then ask one of them: “Who will stay behind to watch over this gold?” The one who answered would have their throat cut, their spirit bound to the task for eternity.

They say a woman, perhaps one of these enslaved souls, was murdered and buried along with a chest of treasure near North End, close to Mayaya Rock. Ever since, a figure dressed in white with long black hair has been seen standing on the rocks, facing the sea.

Some say she is waiting—watching for the ship that left her behind to return, so that she can finally rest. Others say she is bound by the same curse, her soul tied to the treasure hidden beneath her. Many islanders who walked the seaside at night said to have encountered her—silent, still, staring out across the water.

She doesn’t cry. She doesn’t move. But if you ever find yourself near Mayaya Rock under moonlight, and you see a pale woman standing at the edge, don’t call out. Just leave her be.