La Pisadeira legend of Brazil

Get in touch

555-555-5555

mymail@mailservice.com

Origins of the Pisadeira legend

The origins of La Pisadeira are thought to be closely connected to the Portuguese myth known as Fradinho da Mão Furada, or "Little Hand-Hole Friar."

The creature, Fradinho, was believed to enter people's bedrooms and press his "heavy hand" upon their chest, preventing them from screaming.

This mythical connection suggests that La Pisadeira may be a descendant, or at least a relation, of Portuguese folklore, adapted over time to reflect Brazilian cultural nuances.

The name "Pisadeira" comes from the Portuguese word "pisar", which means "to step on" or "to press" - and the name couldn't be more fitting.

This demon is known for appearing in people’s homes at night, sitting on their chests and causing a feeling of suffocation.

She is primarily known in the southeastern regions of Brazil, including Minas Gerais and São Paulo, where her legend has taken on various local interpretations.

Unlike other mythological beings that may have a noble or heroic side, Pisadeira is a purely evil character. She doesn’t help anyone or bring any good fortune; her only role is to cause discomfort, fear and panic.

Physical appearance of La Pisadeira

Pisadeira’s appearance is distinctive but as is often the case, she is sometimes described differently depending on the region.

In general, Pisadeira is depicted as an old, thin woman, a witchy crone-like creature, with long, bony fingers, unkempt hair and tattered clothes.

In some states like Minas Gerais and São Paulo, the Pisadeira is portrayed as a "heavy" Afro-Brazilian woman who likes to step on the stomachs of people who just ate a large meal or those who like to sleep on their backs.

Around the São Francisco River, there is also a northeastern version known as "Pesadeira," who shares similar traits but wears a red cap.

In some regions, she is known as "Pisador", a masculine version of the entity. In these areas, her strength is said to increase when someone mocks or insults her.

And there is also a similar creature described in reference to the native Brazilian Indians; one tribe, the Tupi, called her Kerepiiua.

The lesson behind the legend

The legend of La Pisadeira is often used to teach children and adults about the dangers of overeating and the importance of humility.

It’s said that Pisadeira targets those who are not only physically vulnerable - having eaten too much before bed - but also morally vulnerable, exhibiting arrogance or carelessness.

In this sense, La Pisadeira embodies the consequences of excess and pride.

The stories of her creeping into rooms and suffocating those who overindulge act as a reminder that our actions, even small ones, have consequences.

The use of fear to instill moral values is a common theme in folklore around the world and La Pisadeira is no different.

La Pisadeira remains an enduring figure in Brazilian folklore. Her presence is a reminder that the boundaries between the physical and the supernatural are thin, especially when we're most vulnerable - during sleep.

This tale is a perfect example of how folklore can reflect cultural values, embody common fears and offer explanations for the strange and inexplicable experiences of life.

So if you ever find yourself unable to move in the middle of the night, with a heavy pressure on your chest, remember - you might not be alone.

Perhaps La Pisadeira has come to pay a visit...