Cuélebre

It is depicted as a giant, winged serpent-dragon that inhabits caves and guards treasures, often keeping anjanas (fairy-like beings, also known as xanas) captive.

Although immortal, they eventually leave their homeland and fly to a mythical paradise called Mar Cuajada, located beyond the sea.

There are mythical ways to defeat the creature, such as feeding it a red-hot stone or a loaf of bread filled with pins, which would cause its death.

According to Asturian and Cantabrian folklore, Midsummer (the night of San Juan) is a magical time when brave individuals can challenge the cuélebre, as its spells lose their power.

However, in Cantabrian lore, Saint Bartholomew's Night is said to be when the cuélebre becomes even more powerful, unleashing its wrath in vengeance against humans.

El Cuélebre . Woodcarving by Lise .