cockatrix

The name basilisk comes from the Greek basileus, which means king. The basilisk was the King of the snakes and the most poisonous creature on earth. His appearance has always been a matter of dispute since there is no way to see a basilisk and survive. Looking at it, according to legend, brings death. The basilisk was depicted in a few illuminated manuscripts in the Middle Ages but appeared much more often as an ornamental detail in church architecture, adorning capitals and medallions. The best representation of the basilisk is found in the decorative field of heraldry where the basilisk had the head and legs of a cock, a snake-like tail, and a body like a birdÂ’s. It seems that the wings could be depicted as either being covered with feathers or scales.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The antique Romans called him "regulus" or little king, not only because of his crown, but because he terrorized all other creatures with his deadly look and poison. His color was yellow, sometimes with a kind of blackish hue. Plinius mentioned a white spot on his head, which could be misinterpreted as a diadem or a crown. Others speak of three spikes on his forehead.

Regarding his dangerousness rural legends distinguishes three main types. The golden basilisk poisoned everything by his mere look. The evil-eye basilisk terrorized and killed every creature by his third eye on the top of a golden head. The sanguineness basilisk sting made the flesh fall off the bones of his victim. All three had a deadly breath, which could even make rocks crumble.