Minoan Culture
This island in the Aegean was the site where the first European civilization began.
What is Crete?
The Mycenaeans used this heavily fortified hilltop stronghold occupied by the ruling family and army as their primary means of defense.
What is a citadel?
Meaning "pleasure-seeking," this term describes the overall lifestyle and culture of the Minoans.
What is hedonistic?
The title or name of the mythological king the Minoans were named after, which may have served as a title similar to "Pharaoh" in Egypt.
Who is King Minos?
Excavated around the turn of the century, this famous structure marked the entrance to the citadel at Mycenae.
What is the Lion Gate?
Minoan wall paintings often depicted religious festivals, including this dangerous athletic tradition involving livestock.
What is bull-leaping?
The largest Minoan palace was built and rebuilt in this capital city.
What is Knossos?
Examples of Mycenaean pottery and exported bronze work were discovered inside these uniquely shaped burial chambers throughout Mycenae.
What are beehive-like tombs?
Both Minoans and Mycenaeans were skilled artisans known for crafting and exporting this ceramic trade good across the Mediterranean.
What is pottery?
Minoan sailors traveled across the Mediterranean to trade their goods with this major civilization ruled by Pharaohs.
What is Egypt?
The Minoans developed this early Greek alphabet to record their language.
What is Linear A?
Despite exporting manufactured pottery and weapons, the Mycenaean economy was primarily supported by this activity.
What are raids?
The Minoans buried personal possessions alongside their deceased, showing a firm belief in this concept.
What is the afterlife (or life after death)?
Beyond Mycenae itself, royal tombs and citadels show Mycenaean presence in this famous city that is now the modern capital of Greece.
What is Athens?
Minoan culture came to an end due to attacks by the Mycenaeans combined with this natural event.
What is volcanic activity?
The Mycenaean civilization came to an end around 1200 B.C. primarily due to invasions by this group.
Who are the Dorians?
While the Minoans focused heavily on trade and pleasure, the Mycenaean culture was characterized as commercial and this warlike trait.
What is militaristic? (or Warlike)
The warlike Mycenaeans established themselves from Thessaly down to this major southern Greek peninsula.
What is the Peloponnesus?