The GenusOphrysL. is the richest in species of all European and Mediterranean Orchids. High genetic compatibility, hybridization, introgession and selection by pollinating insects have resulted in various evolutionary trends that can be similar in different areas. So a review of the old, merely morphological, taxonomical arrangement is necessary; thus a synthesis of modern theories on the polytopic origin of species, microevolution in act, parallel evolution with pollinating insects induces us to evaluate differences and affinities from a new point of view, also in relation to relevant recent chorological acquirements.