What are snowdrops?

In many European countries, snowdrops are seen as spring's herald, as they're the first flowers to bloom right at the end of winter. 
The name "Galanthus nivalis" comes from the greek words "gála" (meaning milk) and "ánthos" (meaning flower), as well as the latin word for snow. Their small, white flowers resemble the snow, which has prompted many legends and myths to be made about their relation to snow throughout history, in many countries.