The Minoans

The Minoans were an ancient civilization that thrived on the island of Crete around 2000–1450 BCE. They are known for advanced palace complexes like Knossos, sophisticated art, and maritime trade. The Minoans developed a writing system called Linear A (still not fully deciphered) and had a rich culture of religion and sport, including early forms of bull-leaping. They were influential in the Bronze Age Aegean region but mysteriously declined, possibly due to natural disasters or invasions. Their achievements laid foundational aspects of later Greek culture, making them one of the earliest advanced civilizations in Europe.