KNOSSOS AND THE HERAKLION MUSEUM

Παρουσίαση

The center of the refined Minoan civilization of the palatial period, which flourished in Crete during the 2nd millennium BC and was one of the great civilizations of the ancient world, are the four palaces: Knossos, Phaistos, Malia and Zakros. These impressive edifices were built in around 1900 BC in geographically suitable locations, ensuring direct connection with the rich rural hinterland and the important sea routes of the Aegean and Mediterranean. Smaller "palaces" existed too, seats of the local governors, such as that at Gournia. The palaces resulted from the needs imposed by a centralized economy and social organization, apparently headed by a "Priest king", of which the legendary Minos, known from classical Greek tradition, was the prototype. It has also been suggested that the several palaces presuppose several kings, certainly without any mutual political rivalry and probably with some degree of independence, under the hegemony of the king of Knossos, who may have had religious supremacy. Whatever the case, the leading role of Knossos in religion, as well as in the island's administration, legislature and economy is quite obvious. [...] (From the publisher)