The Invisible City of Biringan
Legend says a glittering city stands on the island of Samar, invisible to most people, and that some who find it never return.
What was reported
On the island of Samar in the Philippines, people tell of Biringan, a beautiful city with tall buildings and bright lights, inhabited by spirits called engkanto. It is said to be invisible, and only a few people ever see it.
Fishermen describe seeing city lights at sea where there is nothing on the map, and stories tell of travellers who visited the city, or were invited in by people who looked like humans.
Explanations offered
Biringan is a legend, part of a wider Filipino belief in engkanto spirits. Lights seen at night may come from boats, distant towns or mirages over the sea. The legend is now part of Samar's identity, and appears in films and books.
- When
- Told for generations
- Where
- Samar, Philippines
- Witnesses
- Fishermen, travellers and villagers of Samar
- Status
- Legend
Famous cases are real, widely reported events. Each file sets out what witnesses said and the explanations that have been offered, without taking a side.