The Abduction of Europe

European civilization started off in Crete.

Mythology recounts that Zeus, the father of the Gods, fell in love with a princess named Europe. To win her heart, he disguised himself as a white bull and approached her while she was playing with her friends. The beautiful animal captivated the girls, who began to pet and play with it. Before long, Europe climbed onto its back. Suddenly, the bull ran off to the sea, carrying her away to Crete. Despite her tears and protests, Zeus had abducted her.

The sculpture was designed by the Cretan director Nikos Koundouros and created by Nikos and Pantelis Sotiriadis.

Information Municipality of Agios Nikolaos

Archive photo: Incredible Crete