Wenzu Lanzun and the Castle He Built
Mr. Wenzu, who was said to be originally from the Cottonera area, was a man deeply passionate about hunting. One day, he decided to head toward the upper countryside in search of a piece of land he could purchase to pursue this beloved pastime.
As he journeyed uphill, he happened to cross paths with Fra Celest, a well-known friar in the area. They struck up a warm conversation, as though they were two lifelong friends who had known each other for years. During their exchange, Wenzu shared his intentions and desire to buy land suitable for hunting.
Fra Celest immediately responded, “I know of a small field that would be just right for you.” Wenzu took great interest in what the friar had said. The friar explained that the land once belonged to a local family—the father had passed away, leaving behind his widow, Manwela, and five small children.
Without hesitation, Wenzu and Fra Celest made their way to l-Imsierah, riding on Wenzu’s cart. As they traveled, their discussion about the land continued without pause, with Fra Celest speaking so enthusiastically that one would think he was a professional land agent.
When they arrived near the field, they approached the widow Manwela, who lived nearby. Wenzu expressed his wish to purchase the land and shared his plan: to build a castle, where he could enjoy hunting, and to construct two rooms within the castle for Manwela and her children to live in. In return, they would help take care of the castle in his absence.
Wenzu and the Castle Hill
Wenzu loved to hunt all day,
In fields and trees so far away.
He searched for land with skies so blue,
To build a home and start anew.
He met Fra Celest on the way,
Who smiled and said, “I know the place!
A field so wide, with birds that sing,
A perfect spot for everything!”
The land belonged to kind Ms. Nell,
With five young kids and tales to tell.
Wenzu said, “Let’s build with cheer,
A castle strong, with rooms right here!”
“You’ll live inside, and guard the door,
While I go hunt on hills once more.
Your kids can play, and laugh and run,
Beneath the stars, beneath the sun!”
And so they built the castle tall,
With love and care for one and all.
And every time the winds would blow,
The stories of kind Wenzu grow!
