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Alton, Illinois
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The Piasa Bird, a mythical creature depicted on a cliff face, was first documented by French explorers Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet in 1673.
The Piasa Bird is described as having the body of a fish, antlers like a deer, wings like a bird, and a face resembling a man.
The original painting was destroyed due to quarrying in the 19th century, but it has been recreated based on historical descriptions.
The Piasa Bird is believed to be part of the folklore of the Illiniwek people, who inhabited the region before European settlers arrived.
The name 'Piasa' is thought to mean 'the bird that devours men' in the language of the Illiniwek.
The modern depiction of the Piasa Bird can be found on a limestone bluff along the Mississippi River in Alton, Illinois.
The creature is often associated with tales of it terrorizing local tribes until it was slain by a brave chief.
