Download Epitaph for Minoan Civilization by Nikky Nemzer

Epitaph for Minoan Civilization by Nikky Nemzer
Minoan Civilization existed during the Bronze Age between 2800 BC and 1400 BC on an Island of
Crete in Aegean Sea. The Minoan people were peaceful, happy and excellent craftsmen and
metalworkers. They made jewelry from gold and copper as well as delicate frescoes and ceramic
pottery. They also grew two main crops: olives and grapes. Minoans were brilliant ship builders and
overtime became a great marine power and the world’s first most important maritime civilization.
They continuously improved their ship design to travel faster and farther and to escape the pirates.
Widespread sea travel lead to the extensive trading with neighboring countries. Minoans flourished
and their villages grew into large cities. Their largest city - Knossos was famous for its 5 story, 1500
room palace that was a multipurpose building: government, temple, factory and warehouse. The
Minoans also had working plumbing, flushing toilets, cold and warm water in all houses of Knossos,
not just the palace. Minoan Civilization was advanced enough to have their own writing. The
people were ruled by a king-priest and worshiped Bull-God and Fertility Goddess Mother Earth.
They loved sports and were the first to build sports arenas and hold the Bull Leaping competitions.
Their sacred object was a double ax and a bull was their sacred animal. Due to a catastrophe, most
likely a volcanic eruption, the civilization started to decline in 1700s BC until it was finally
completely taken over by the neighboring Greek invaders Mycenaeans in 1400s BC. The demise of
Minoan Civilization is described in a Greek Myth about the Greek prince Theseus killing the
Minotaur (a human with Bull’s head that fed on human flesh) who lived in a labyrinth under the
palace of Knossos. The death of Minotaur signified the end of Minoan Civilization.