How to defeat Medusa in Castlevania Belmont's Curse

Medusa, also known as the Prophetess, is one of the first three bosses in Castlevania: Belmont's Curse that you face. You must defeat her to obtain the keys to open the gate to the catacombs. The game won't tell you where you can find these enemies, forcing you to explore every room in the initial maps for hints that will lead you to the boss rooms.