
Minoans
The Minoans were an ancient civilization that flourished on the island of Crete from about 2700 to 1450 BCE. Known for their advanced architecture, they built complex palaces, such as the famous Palace of Knossos, featuring vibrant frescoes and sophisticated drainage systems. The Minoans engaged in trade across the Mediterranean, influencing other cultures with their art and innovations. They had a writing system known as Linear A, which remains undeciphered. Their civilization declined around 1450 BCE, likely due to natural disasters and invasions, but their legacy significantly impacted later Greek culture and history.