Evropi

Evropi is the modern Greek name for the continent of Europe. In Greek, Ευρώπη (Evropi) refers to the geographic region of Europe as well as to European civilization, institutions, and cultural identity perceived from a Greek perspective. The term is used in education, media, and diplomacy in Greece. In everyday speech, Evropi can denote both the physical continent and the broader concept of Europe within international contexts.

Etymology

Evropi derives from the Greek name Ευρώπη, historically linked to the mythological Europa, daughter of Agenor. The exact linguistic roots are uncertain, and the link is often discussed in relation to ancient Greek naming of lands to the west and to later classical European geography. The word Europa is the source for many languages’ names for the continent, including Evropi in Greek.

Geography

In Greek usage as in many European traditions, Evropi comprises the landmass west of the boundary between Europe and Asia. There is no single universally fixed border; common conventions locate the eastern edge along the Ural Mountains and Urals River, with the southeastern boundary often associated with the Greater Caucasus or the Turkish straits (the Bosporus and Dardanelles). The definition shapes cultural and political discussions as much as physical geography.

History and culture

The concept of Evropi has ancient roots in Greek thought, where the name originally referred to the lands to the west of Asia. Over time, it developed into a broader cultural and political idea, particularly in modern times with European integration and transnational institutions. In Greece, Evropi is a central term in national discourse about Europe’s shared history, languages, and values.

See also: Europe; Greek language; European Union.