Bolla and Kulshedra (Albanian Mythology)

For centuries, folk tales of fierce, fire-breathing dragons have fascinated children and adults alike. Sometimes frightening, sometimes surprisingly friendly, dragons are major protagonists in legends around the world. Today, we'll be focusing on Albanian mythology, specifically the Bolla and the Kulshedra . 🐉

Through this article, you will learn about and discover the legends behind the Bolla and the Kulshedra. Our approach focuses on Albanian stories and tales. Depending on the culture, the appearance and abilities of the mythological creature may differ.

The Bolla

In Albania, Romania, and Hungary, some people believe that if a snake lives long enough and is not seen by a human, it will eventually transform into a dragon. In Albanian mythology, this dragon is called a Bolla . It keeps its eyes closed almost all year round because if it sees a human, it must eat them. On Saint George 's Day (April 23), the Bolla opens its eyes and devours the first human it sees. Folklore explains that Saint George cursed the beast so that it would be blind forever except on its feast day. ⚔️

The Kulshedra

According to popular belief, a snake 🐍, after living for a number of years, transforms into a Bolla and eventually becomes the monstrous Kulshedra . A female dragon with between 7 and 12 heads, covered in red fur and hair, with a long tail and breasts that hang to the ground. The Kulshedra is capable of breathing fire. Its urine and milk are both said to be poisonous. The Kulshedra is also considered a storm demon . It is believed to cause droughts, floods, and other natural disasters. Often, to appease the Kulshedra's wrath, and in exchange for water, a human sacrifice is required.

However, in Albania , there are what are called " draguas ," semi-human men with Herculean strength who have invisible wings under their arms. Their main goal in life is to kill the Kulshedras. They spend their childhood training in combat methods to face these dragons. When they see a Kulshedra, they become frenzied . They hurl rocks, farming tools, trees, and uprooted houses until the Kulshedra is stunned. Then, they throw the Kulshedra into a river. The dragua , sometimes called "drangue" or "drangoni," is the male conqueror of the female monster Kulshedra, whom he must fight to the death according to his religious convictions.

Physical Description of the Bolla and the Kelshedra

The Bolla is a mythological creature and it resembles a dragon ; here are its physical characteristics:

• Serpentine Body
• Four legs
• Little Wings
• Silver Eyes

After twelve years and without having met anyone's gaze, the Bolla becomes a Kulshedra , a fearsome being that decimates entire villages to feed itself. The Kulshedra can also take the form of a woman . Here are its physical characteristics after the transformation:

• Nine Languages ​​(sharp as a javelin)
• Horns Thorns
• Large Wings
• Fire Element

5 Facts About the Bolla and the Kulshedra

Did you know? The Bolla comes from Albania, in southeastern Europe. In some stories, the Kulshedra is thrown into the Shkumbin River in central Albania. The beast's appearance is indeed similar to a type of dragon . Here are 5 facts about the Bolla and the Kulshedra:

• Although many dragons are neither male nor female, Kulshedras are depicted as female dragons . They can breathe fire and possess the moon and the sky.
• Kulshedras can transform into women, as well as eels, frogs, turtles, and salamanders.
• In Albania, the word for "grass snake" is also Bolla .
• The Kulshedras are also the guardians of earthly beauty, a witch who lives in the underworld. Sometimes she can be good, but she is usually an evil character.
• The children of Kulshedras are called Shlligas . They can cause storms.

Take ownership of the Dragon Class

We've just learned more about the Bolla and the Kulshedra , two mythical creatures that are actually one and the same . You now know that in Albanian legends and stories, this beast is seen as a bloodthirsty demon. Rest assured, no one alive today has ever encountered a Bolla or a Kulshedra. 🐉

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