Cortijo Jurado, also known as Casa Encantada, is a 19th-century mansion located near Campanillas Village in Málaga Province, Spain. This abandoned estate has gained a reputation as one of the most haunted buildings in the country, attracting paranormal enthusiasts and ghost hunters from far and wide.
The mansion’s eerie history began shortly after its construction by the wealthy Heredia family. According to local legends, between 1890 and 1920, young girls aged 18 to 21 began disappearing from the surrounding area. These disappearances were allegedly linked to sinister activities taking place within the walls of Cortijo Jurado.
The most chilling aspect of the legend involves claims that the Heredia family, along with other affluent families in the region, were involved in kidnapping these young women. It is said that they subjected their victims to satanic rituals, torture, and murder. Some versions of the story suggest that the bodies of these unfortunate girls were buried deep within the property, possibly in secret underground chambers or tunnels.
While no concrete evidence has ever been found to support these claims, the legend has persisted for decades. Many believe that the wealthy families used their influence and connections to evade justice and keep their dark secrets hidden.
The paranormal activity reported at Cortijo Jurado is said to be a result of the pain and suffering experienced by these victims. Visitors and investigators have reported a range of unexplained phenomena, including disembodied voices and screams, particularly in the courtyard and first floor of the mansion. Apparitions of young women, often described as looking distressed or in pain. Unexplained sounds, such as footsteps and doors slamming when no one is present. Sudden temperature drops in specific areas of the building. Feelings of unease, dread, or being watched, especially in the basement areas.
One of the most notable accounts comes from a young man named Manuel Martín. In 1942, he claimed to have entered one of the tunnels beneath the property on a dare. According to his testimony, which he maintained throughout his life, he discovered a room filled with torture devices and scattered bones. This experience left him deeply shaken and added fuel to the already existing rumors about the property’s dark past.
The mansion’s design itself adds to its mysterious aura. With 365 windows, one for each day of the year, and rumors of secret tunnels connecting it to other nearby properties, Cortijo Jurado seems purpose-built for tales of the supernatural.
Over the years, numerous paranormal investigations have been conducted at the site. While some have yielded inconclusive results, others have reported capturing EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena), unexplained temperature fluctuations, and even photographic anomalies.
The property’s state of abandonment and decay has only enhanced its reputation as a haunted location. Plans to convert the mansion into a luxury hotel have been repeatedly delayed or abandoned, leading some to speculate that supernatural forces are at work to prevent the disturbance of whatever secrets the building may hold.
