The origin of the name remains mysterious. However, the earliest mention of the word "Europe" is found in the Hymn to Apollo, a hymn written in Greek in the sixth century BC. 

It says: "Men will come from the rich lands in the Peloponnese from Europe and from all the islands surrounded by waves." 

The term Europe comes from the Greek word Eurôpê, which means "wide view" to the mainland territories of Greece, to the northwest of the Aegean Sea. 

The word also refers to all the continental space outside this region. 

According to Greek mythology as well, Europe is also the name of a Greek princess, daughter of King Agenor of the city of Tyre. Enchanted by this beautiful creature, Zeus transformed into a bull to abduct her. He then took her to the island of Crete. 

Europe's father ordered his sons to go search for her and not return without her, but they did not succeed.