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Isla de las Muñecas 

Isla de las Muñecas (the Island of the Dolls) is a small floating garden in the Xochimilco canal system south of Mexico City. Its mystery originates with the discovery of a drowned girl by the island's former caretaker, Don Julian Santana Barrera. The floating body of a doll was found by Julian shortly thereafter, and  believing it belonged to the drowned girl, he hung it in a nearby tree. 

Julian grew increasingly haunted and reclusive on the island, hearing whispers and footsteps throughout the night. In fear, he began to collect and offer more dolls to appease the girl's ghost. In 2001, 50 years after discovering the drowned girl, Julian was found drowned in the exact same location.

Locals and travellers continue to bring dolls and other offerings to add to the island's collection, and quell whatever spirits may still reside there.  

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The Museum of Fear and Wonder recognizes, and expresses its gratitude for, its location on the traditional territories of the people of the Treaty 6 and 7 Regions of Alberta, and of the many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit whose footsteps have marked these lands for centuries.

© Brendan Griebel and Jude Griebel

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