Stuff To Blow Your Mind The Monstrefact: Monster Mantas of Chilean Folklore
Jul 9, 2025
Dive into the eerie depths of Chilean folklore as fascinating creatures come to life. Discover the chilling tales of the manta and cuero, along with the spine-tingling legend of the Shivato. Each story weaves horror into the cultural identity of Chile, blending transformation myths with personal anecdotes. Unraveling these mythical beings reveals the region's rich history and the mysteries of its waters.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Manta Folklore and Real Creatures
- The Chilean folklore creature called the manta is described as a flat entity with eyes all around and tentacles, preying on swimmers by pulling them under water.
- It could be inspired by real manta rays or cephalopods, with legendary attributes added.
Cuero Creature and Storms
- The folklore manta has ties to another creature called the cuero, said to have formed from a donkey hide that came to life in freshwater.
- Both creatures are linked with causing storms when leaving their resting places on rocks.
Trelcauicove as Mvunche's Minion
- The Trelcauicove of Araucanian folklore matches the manta and cuero descriptions and is associated with the Mvunche, a bladder-like vampire living underground.
- It serves as the Mvunche's minion to deliver human victims.
