1. Minoan Civilization l Minoan civilization rose around 3000 B.C.E.
Crete – an island in the Mediterranean Sea.
Built faster ships than most to outrun pirates

2. Minoan Culture Main god: Great Goddess - Mother Earth
Cities had no walls:
Sea gave protection
Palace at Knossos:
Hallways were a labyrinth (maze)

3. Excavation of the Palace at Knossos

4. Palace at Knossos

6. Mycenaean Civilization
By 1400 B.C.E main power in the area
Many groups living on the mainland
Fortress-like palaces on hills
Main God:
Great Goddess - protector of warriors

7. Mycenaean Culture Early Greek language
Most of the Greek battle myths/legends
Created a strong military
Very little recreational entertainment left behind