Santa Marta, Rio Negro

Santa Marta is a small coastal town located in Río Negro, Argentina, notable for its unique geography of dense forests adjoining a sandy beach. The town serves as the birthplace and home of Naomi Castro and her family, and it is one of the known crossing points into Faery due to the presence of Gaspar’s domain.

Overview

Founded in 1866 by European settlers and local families, Santa Marta has remained relatively isolated, preserving both natural landscapes and long-standing traditions. The town is surrounded by thick pine and native Patagonian forests, which stretch directly toward the Atlantic coastline.

The dual landscape of forest and shore has fueled local folklore and superstitions for generations. Stories of strange lights, inexplicable winds, and sudden disappearances are common, often linked by locals to “las hadas” and other folkloric creatures.

History

  • 1866 – Foundation: Santa Marta was established as a small fishing and logging community. Families of Spanish, Italian, and criollo descent built homes along the coast and cleared sections of the forest.
  • Late 1800s: Oral histories describe unusual events following the town’s founding, including unexplained illnesses, accidents near thorn groves, and tales of a “green man” said to wander the woods. This period coincides with the death of Gaspar, who later reappears in Faery as part of the Gentry.
  • 20th Century: While modern infrastructure reached Santa Marta, it has remained small and largely dependent on fishing, tourism, and small-scale farming. The woods and beach continue to be considered liminal spaces by locals, and warnings against cutting certain trees or disturbing mushrooms persist.

Connection to Faery

Santa Marta is a significant location within the narrative due to its connection to Gaspar’s domain. The Castro family has lived in the town for generations, unknowingly residing close to active fairy sites.

  • Gaspar’s Domain: Located in the deeper forest beyond the main town, tied to roots, thorns, and mushroom circles.
  • Crossing Points: Liminal areas such as the beach at night, storm winds, and mushroom clusters act as weak spots between Earth and Faery.
  • Local Lore: Families often tell children not to wander at dusk or whistle near the forest edge, traditions rooted in faint memories of Faery contact.

Notable Residents

  • Naomi Castro: Protagonist of the series, resident of Santa Marta and current debtor to Gaspar.
  • Gaspar: Formerly a wealthy man that contributed to the foundation of the town. After death he becomes part of the Gentry of Faery whose domain overlaps with Santa Marta’s woods. His death in the late 1800s corresponds with the town’s early history.
  • Castro Family: Generational inhabitants of Santa Marta, with roots dating back to its founding.
  • Maria:
  • Lucas: