Galipote (mythological creature)

The Galipote, also called Zángano or Lugarú, is a legendary character from the Dominican Republic, originally from San Juan, which probably dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

[1] It was a mythical being characterized by the ability to transform into different animals and inanimate objects (such as trees or stones), as well as enjoying atrocious strength and immunity against firearms.

[3][1] The origin of his power is not entirely clear, however, most agree that it was due to a pact with the devil, which fits perfectly with the strong Christian foundation of the Dominican Republic.

[2][4] There is a belief in a galipote capable of turning exclusively into a dog, known as lugaru (a term that seems to come from the French loup-garou, a name used for the legendary werewolf or lycanthrope).

[3] According to popular belief, the galipote was only vulnerable to a stake from a tree known as palo de cruz, which had to be cut specifically on Good Friday.