European Dragons

In western folklore, there are many kinds of dragons from all around the European countries, all sharing common traits but with unique characteristic as well. Generally the myths and folklore are Germanic Europe, Celtic Europe, and Slavic Europe. Dragons in the western folklore are usually depicted as an evil figure, with exception mainly with Welsh folklore, it is in contrast with the Chinese dragons or Asian dragons which traditionally depicted as deities and more benevolent creatures.


The European Dragon is a huge, fire-breathing, horned, scaly and lizard-like creature. With leathery wings that is similar to bats, four legs and a long muscular tail. There is also the Wyvern, which is commonly mistaken as a dragon. Wyvern has no more then two legs and sometimes 2 pair of wings.



Most dragons in the European folklore are fire-breathing dragons, while some possess venomous bite, usually wyverns. Most of the time it is scaly, horned and leathery wings, sometimes it is shown with feathered wings and crest, fiery manes with spikes all the way down to the spine. Legends said that Dragon's blood usually contain magical properties whether its to be able to speak the language of the dragons or heal terminal disease or just a curse to drink it. Many stories often associated a great hero set forth to slay a dragon, typically European dragons or wyverns are often found in abandoned castles or caves and underground lairs protecting gold, treasures and jewelries for those who is able to slay the dragon.

While most dragon in the European folklore are depicted as evil, some hates mankind, destroyer of farm crops and agriculture, bring harsh weathers and natural disaster. There are those that choose to oppose their own kind and help mankind.

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