Lassithi The Abduction of Europe Sculpture

Location: Agios Nikolaos

Standing in the port area of Agios Nikolaos and based on the ancient story of Europe, the statue of the abduction of Europe stands out for its unique appearance and modern design.

The myth of the Abduction of Europe still touches not only the souls of many but also the sensitive chores that we all carry in our hearts. The popular legend argues that Zeus, the father of Gods, once fell in love with the beautiful Phoenician princess Europe. To approach her, he took the form of a white bull and appeared in front of her, while she was playing with her friends. Truly, bewitched by the beauty of the animal, Europe came closer and tried to climb to its back. It was at this moment that the disguised Zeus took his chance and stole Europe away. Despite her pleading and objections, Zeus transferred her to Crete. According to mythology, Europe later gave birth to three sons. One of them was Minos, the founder of the Minoan Civilization, who inherited the kingdom of Crete.

The brass statue in Agios Nikolaos is the work of painter, sculptor and producer Nikos Koundouros, and it aspires to symbolize the ideal of European unity, solidarity and peace. It is 4 meters high and weighs approximately 6 tons. Should you take a walk at the port area of Agios Nikolaos, it is easily detected.