The Piasa (/ ˈpaɪ.əsɔː / PY-ə-saw) or Piasa Bird is a creature from Native American mythology depicted in one of two murals painted by Native Americans on cliffsides above the Mississippi River.

According to Russell, this creature is known as the Piasa; the “name is Indian, and signifies in the language of the Illini, ‘ the bird that devours men.’”

Piasa is a mythical creature that has been a part of Native American mythology for centuries. The creature is depicted as a dragon-like monster that symbolizes war, death, and the evil spirit.

In this version, the Piasa was a giant condor that was slain by Alpeora, a courageous Indian who killed the monster single-handedly. He returned to his original version of the legend in the July 14, 1848 …

The Piasa was believed to live in caves or springs, which represented entrances to the Underworld. Dangerous rapids such as those at the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers also would …

Dec 7, 2023 · The Piasa bird is an important and iconic image within Native American culture, referring to a mythical dragon-like monster painted on a cliff facing the Mississippi river.

Information and legends about the Native American mythological bird 'Piasa' (or Piesa), depicted in cliff paintings above the Mississippi River.

Apr 3, 2025 · Despite its ambiguous nature, the Piasa Bird continues to capture the imagination. It’s become a symbol of Illinois, representing the state’s rich history and cultural diversity.

The Piasa Bird (pronounced pie-uh-saw), is a local legend with its roots in Alton. The name ‘Piasa’ was derived from the Algonquian Illiniwek language and is supposed to mean ‘a bird that devours men’.

The Piasa represents one of the most significant examples of Native American rock art from the pre-Columbian period in the Mississippi River Valley, embodying cultural beliefs and oral traditions that …