Chasing Shadows: The Enduring Mystery of the Lost Treasure of Cocos Island

Explore the mystery of Cocos Island, from the legendary Treasure of Lima to its modern status as a UNESCO World Heritage site and premier shark diving destination.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 13, 2026, 9:24 AM EDT

Source: The Tico Times

The Genesis of the Legend: The Treasure of Lima

The most enduring tale associated with the island dates back to 1820, during the South American wars of independence. Fearing the advance of revolutionary forces, the Spanish Viceroy of Lima allegedly entrusted the city’s vast wealth to British Captain William Thompson of the ship Mary Dear. The cargo was said to include:

The Golden Virgin: A life-sized statue of the Virgin Mary cast in solid gold.

Jeweled Armaments: Hundreds of diamond-encrusted swords and golden candlesticks.

Coinage: Chests overflowing with gold doubloons and silver pieces of eight.

According to legend, Thompson and his crew turned pirate, murdered the Spanish guards, and buried the loot on Cocos Island. Though Thompson was later captured, he escaped into the island’s dense jungle, taking the secret of the treasure’s location to his grave.