When travelers think of Greece, two things often come to mind: breathtaking landscapes like Santorini’s caldera and the timeless myths of the ancient gods. Among these myths, none capture the essence of passion, desire, and beauty more than the stories of the Greek god of love. From Eros and Psyche to Aphrodite, these tales continue to shape how we understand romance today — making Greece not only a dream honeymoon destination, but also the birthplace of love’s mythology.
In Greek mythology, the god of love is Eros. Known to the Romans as Cupid, Eros represents desire, attraction, and the power of affection that can bind hearts together. Unlike other deities, Eros is often depicted in multiple ways:
As a primordial god who emerged at the dawn of creation, embodying the force of love that brings order to chaos.
As the mischievous winged youth, the son of Aphrodite (the goddess of love and beauty), who shoots arrows to inspire uncontrollable passion.
This dual identity makes Eros unique: both cosmic and playful, serious and lighthearted, eternal and fleeting.
Perhaps the most captivating myth involving Eros is his love story with Psyche, often referred to as the Greek goddess of the soul. Their romance is not only one of mythology’s greatest love stories, but also a symbol of trust, transformation, and eternal union.
Psyche was a mortal woman of such breathtaking beauty that people compared her to Aphrodite, angering the goddess. Out of jealousy, Aphrodite commanded her son Eros to make Psyche fall in love with a hideous creature. But upon seeing her, Eros himself was struck by his own arrow and fell deeply in love.
Their love faced endless obstacles. Psyche was forbidden to see her mysterious lover’s face, yet curiosity drove her to betray his trust. When she discovered Eros’s true identity, he fled, leaving her heartbroken. Determined, Psyche endured impossible trials set by Aphrodite — sorting grains, fetching water from a deadly river, and descending into the underworld.
With the gods’ help, Psyche triumphed. Finally, Zeus granted her immortality, and she was united with Eros forever. Their story reflects love’s greatest lesson: that true union requires sacrifice, growth, and transformation.
Throughout Greek art and literature, Eros’s symbols remain instantly recognizable:
Bow and arrows – to ignite passion or, in some cases, indifference (golden arrows for love, lead arrows for rejection).
Wings – symbolizing the fleeting, unpredictable nature of desire.
Torch or flame – representing the fire of attraction.
These symbols crossed cultures, inspiring the Roman god of love, Cupid, and appearing in modern celebrations of romance such as Valentine’s Day.
No story of love in Greek mythology would be complete without Aphrodite, often paired with Eros. She embodied sensuality, attraction, and the irresistible charm of beauty. Born from the sea foam, Aphrodite is often connected with islands, oceans, and breathtaking coastlines — much like Santorini itself.
Together, Aphrodite and Eros form a divine pair: beauty inspiring love, and love giving beauty purpose.
In Roman mythology, Eros became Cupid. While both deities share the same essence — arrows, wings, playful desire — Cupid was often portrayed as younger, childlike, and mischievous. The Greek god of love (Eros), however, held a deeper, more philosophical role: the idea that love is not only physical but also the cosmic glue that unites the universe.
This distinction is why Eros and Psyche’s myth has endured as a profound allegory of the soul, while Cupid became a lighter symbol of playful romance.
For centuries, the myth of Eros and Psyche has been retold in art, poetry, opera, and literature. Its themes of longing, betrayal, endurance, and eternal love resonate deeply with couples today.
Trust: Just as Psyche had to learn trust, relationships require faith and vulnerability.
Sacrifice: Great love demands effort and sometimes hardship.
Transformation: Love changes us, just as Psyche transformed from mortal to goddess.
These timeless lessons continue to inspire not only art, but also the very idea of honeymoons and romantic journeys.
It’s no coincidence that couples seeking a honeymoon destination often choose Greece, especially Santorini. The island’s sunsets, whitewashed architecture, and crystal-blue waters embody the very essence of beauty celebrated by Aphrodite and the passion symbolized by Eros.
The caldera cliffs feel as eternal as the myths themselves.
The sunsets over Oia ignite the sky like Eros’s flaming torch.
The quiet intimacy of cave suites mirrors Psyche’s secret, transformative journey toward love.
At On the Rocks Santorini, guests step into this mythic atmosphere, where history, beauty, and romance come alive.
Couples on their honeymoon often find themselves reflecting on stories like Eros and Psyche:
The leap of faith – like Psyche’s trust, marriage is about embracing the unknown together.
The trials – every couple faces challenges, but shared effort leads to growth.
The reward – love that endures becomes immortal in its own way.
Just as Psyche was transformed into a goddess by her union with Eros, honeymoons transform a relationship — turning the promise of love into the reality of shared life.
Who is the Greek god of love?
The Greek god of love is Eros, known as Cupid in Roman mythology.
Who is the Greek goddess Psyche?
Psyche, often considered the Greek goddess of the soul, was a mortal who fell in love with Eros and later became immortal through their union.
What does the god of love symbolize?
Eros symbolizes passion, attraction, and desire. His symbols include wings, arrows, and fire.
Who is the goddess of love and beauty?
That title belongs to Aphrodite, who personified beauty, sensuality, and attraction.
What is the difference between Eros and Cupid?
Eros is the Greek god of love, often seen as a powerful force of creation and passion. Cupid is the Roman version, depicted more as a playful, mischievous child.
From Eros and Psyche to Aphrodite’s beauty, Greek mythology reveals that love is more than a fleeting spark — it is a force that transforms lives, inspires art, and connects souls.
Today, couples seeking romance still turn to Greece, with Santorini as the modern stage for their own mythic journeys. Here, surrounded by sunsets, sea views, and timeless beauty, every honeymoon becomes a living story of love — just as eternal as the gods intended.
