Tradition / Region: Portuguese Mythology
Alternative names: Moiros, Mouros Encantados, Mourinhos, Maruxinhos
Category: Cave dweller
The Myth
The Mouros are a race of supernatural beings who have inhabited Galicia, Asturias, and Portugal since the beginning of time. They are usually described as powerful beings who live beneath the earth, particularly beneath ancient castros, burial mounds, hills, and other places associated with the distant past. Some Mouros appear as giants or warriors, while the Mourinhos and Maruxinhos are described as much smaller, elf-like beings.
According to legend, the Mouros were forced to abandon the surface world for unknown reasons and retreat beneath the earth. They established hidden dwellings beneath ancient settlements and burial mounds, where they continue to live away from ordinary people.
The Mouros are famous for their skill in working gold, silver, and precious stones. Beneath the earth they manufacture enormous treasures and store them in their underground dwellings. These treasures are guarded by the cuélebres, great serpent-like creatures that protect the riches from anyone who attempts to steal them.
The Mouros rarely leave their underground homes. They emerge to obtain food and occasionally appear above ground during special times of the year, particularly around Midsummer. At such times they may be encountered near their underground dwellings, ancient stones, castros, and burial mounds.
Some Mouros appear as warriors or enormous men, while others take the form of enchanted beings. Among them are the Mouras Encantadas, supernatural women associated with springs, caves, rocks, and hidden treasures, as well as the Mourinhos and Maruxinhos, tiny underground people who live beneath the earth.
The Mouros are said to remain hidden beneath the ancient landscape, continuing their work with gold and precious stones while their treasures lie guarded beneath the hills and ruins where people occasionally encounter them.
Sources
“Mouros.” Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation. Accessed August 15, 2026. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mouros