Tradition: Russian Mythology
Alternative Names: Brosnya, Бросня
Category: Dragon
The Myth
The Brosno Dragon, known as Brosnya, is a mysterious dragon-like creature said to dwell in the depths of Lake Brosno in western Russia. It is said to be an enormous lake monster, rarely seen and feared by those living around the lake.
During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, people told of a gigantic creature that would rise from the depths in the evening. Whenever anyone approached the shore or came too close, it would immediately disappear beneath the water again.
The creature also became the subject of darker tales. During the Second World War, it was said that Brosnya rose from the lake and swallowed a German airplane whole.
Some believe the monster may still lurk beneath Lake Brosno, although its existence remains uncertain. Explanations for sightings have included ordinary animals such as beavers or an exceptionally large pike.
Sources
“Brosno dragon.” Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation. Accessed September 20, 2026. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brosno_dragon