Wahrzeichen & Altstadtviertel

Europa Statue

Agios Nikolaos, Lasithi · Free

Highlights & amenities

Entry: Free

About

Europa on the bull, at the harbour.

The statue of Europa on the bull stands at the harbour of Agios Nikolaos. It depicts the myth of Zeus, who turned into a bull and carried Europa to Crete.

The statue stands at the end of the harbour of Agios Nikolaos. It was created by the sculptor Nikos Koundouros and shows Europa sitting on the bull, Zeus in disguise, who brought her from Phoenicia to Crete. Their son Minos became king of Crete. It's a nice photo stop on the harbour walk.

Agios Nikolaos is the capital of Lasithi, built around a lake and a harbour on the beautiful Mirabello gulf. The area includes Elounda, Plaka and the island of Spinalonga to the north, and Kritsa, Lato and the Katharo plateau in the hills behind. The coast has many small beaches and calm bays, and the town is lively in the evening with cafes and restaurants around the lake. Boats leave for Spinalonga and trips around the bay.

Around Agios Nikolaos

Nearest town: Agios Nikolaos, about 1 km by road
Nearest airport: Sitia airport (JSH), about 45 km by road

Lasithi, the eastern end of Crete, is quieter and greener than you might expect. Agios Nikolaos wraps around a small lake and a lively harbour, with cafés on the water and beaches within walking distance. Just north, Elounda and Plaka look across to the fortress island of Spinalonga, one of the most moving places on the island. More about Lasithi