The Cretan King Minos was a legendary ruler of the island of Crete in Greek mythology. He was the son of Zeus and Europa, and was known for his wisdom and justice. He was also the founder of the Minoan civilization, which was one of the earliest civilizations in Europe. Minos is best known for his role in the myth of the Minotaur, where he demanded that Athens send seven youths and seven maidens to be sacrificed to the Minotaur every nine years.