The European lion (Panthera leo europaea) is an extinct subspecies that once roamed Europe and parts of Asia. Although extinct for thousands of years, it is an important part of history and mythology, often depicted in ancient art and literature.
Modern lions, such as the Asiatic and African lions, carry the legacy of these once-great predators. Conservation of lion habitats today serves as a reminder of the fragility of wildlife and the importance of protecting living species from a similar fate.