This book systematically and consistently analyses a wide range of symbols for Europe, critically interpreting their often contradictory or ambiguous dimensions of meaning and uncovering several astonishing aspects of how Europe is currently identified - from above by the political elites as well as from below in critical arts or everyday life; from the inside by European actors but also from the outside by its surrounding others. The focus is on the European Union's main symbols, but they are interpreted in relation to a diverse range of other alternatives, so as to uncover the main facets of Europe as it is currently symbolised.