Minoan Culture

|

Minoan Life and Culture |

|

|

|

|

Minoan Life and Culture

The study of ancient civilizations offers a glimpse into the distant past, and a look at how early life and culture have been influential throughout history. The first great European civilization, the Minoans of Crete, is one such example, presenting a rich culture that has been extensively studied through its excavations and artifacts. Although he was not the first to discover it, much of what is known of Minoan society is thanks to Sir Arthur Evans, who began his excavation work at Knossos of Crete in 1900, and also coined the name Minoan, after the legendary King Minos of Knossos. Excavations continued until 1930, and largely centered on the Palace of Minos. The site was formerly undisturbed for more than 3000 years, and its discoveries tell the story of a thriving economy built by the sophisticated and highly skilled Minoans. 1

The island of Crete can be found in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea and was continuously inhabited by the Minoans from 3000 BC until the fall of Knossos in 1375 BC.1 Handmade pottery has been found to date back to the Prepalatial Period (2600-1900 BC) of Minoan civilization. During this early era, the island attracted settlers from Asia Minor, Egypt and the Cyclades with its fertile ground and central location, planting the roots that would grow into a prosperous civilization. Tombs for the dead began to appear during this time, openings carved into cliff sides, but the majority of early Minoans buried their dead in caves. Early settlers began building farms, raising livestock, and fishing, as well as working with clay, stone and copper. Jewelry making became a lucrative and fulfilling hobby for Minoans as they learned how to work with materials such as gems, ivory and gold. All of these skills eventually led to

trade between neighboring civilizations and expansive population growth, while their waterfront location allowed them to become a great sea...