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Zmeu
A dragon-man of Romanian legend. He kidnaps maidens, guards treasures, and battles heroes. Part human, part dragon, pure evil. The Zmeu appears in countless Romanian folktales.
Ancient - Present
Romania
500+ witnesses
The Zmeu is a dragon-like creature from Romanian folklore, often appearing as an antagonist in heroic tales.
The Legend
According to documented folklore:
The Zmeu:
- Is a dragon-like humanoid
- Kidnaps maidens
- Guards treasures
- Battles heroes (like Făt-Frumos)
- Has magical powers
Description
The Zmeu appears as:
- A humanoid dragon
- Can breathe fire
- Has immense strength
- Sometimes can shape-shift
- Often wealthy and cunning
Behavior
The Zmeu typically:
- Kidnaps princesses
- Demands tribute
- Lives in remote castles
- Guards golden apples or treasures
- Is eventually defeated by heroes
Powers
Zmeu can:
- Fly
- Breathe fire
- Transform
- Cast spells
- Regenerate from wounds
Related Creatures
Similar to:
- Balaur (Romanian dragon)
- European dragons
- Slavic dragons (Zmey)
- But more humanoid
In Stories
Romanian tales feature:
- Heroes fighting Zmeu
- Rescuing kidnapped maidens
- Retrieving stolen treasures
- Outwitting the creature