Minotaur  

Greek Mythology Minotaur

In Greek mythology, the Minotaur was a beast that was part man and part bull. The creature had the head and tail of a bull on the body of a man. It caused such terror and destruction on Cretet. It dwelt at the center of the Labyrinth, which was an elaborate gigantic maze-like construction built for King Minos of Crete and designed by the architect Daedalus to confine the Minotaur. (which escape would be impossible) Daedalus and his son Icarus were ordered to build it. The historical site of Knossos is usually identified as the site of the labyrinth.

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The Minotaur was captured and locked in the labyrinth. Every year for nine years, seven youths and maidens came as tribute from Athens. These young people were also locked in the labyrinth for the Minotaur to feast upon. The Minotaur was eventually killed by Theseus.

"Minotaur" is Greek for "Bull of Minos". The bull was known in Crete as Asterion, a name shared with Minos's foster father.