Month: May 2024

Crete’s Ancient Civilization

Sunday, May 19th: Knossos

Dear Family and Friends,

Of the over 200 inhabited islands of Greece, Crete is the largest and houses the walls and frescos of the oldest civilization in present day Greece.

The original frescos are in a museum for preservation.

Knossos is an archeological site full of legends (Homer’s Osyssey) and myths (the Minotaur). Built and rebuilt during the Bronze Age (1700-1480 BC) the site was thought to be imaginary until the massive palace was discovered in 1900 AD by British Archeologist, Sir Arthur Evans.

This was my second visit to this site, but my appreciation of the beauty, architectural skill, and size was enhanced by the knowledge of our guide.

Our guide

What follows will be photos with captions:

Throne room with original throne and wall frescos.
The queen’ chamber with dolphin frescos.
The Bull’s horns at the entrance to the courtyard. Bull jumping was an activity of the Minoan culture. These horns were a symbol of their expertise and power.
The site is a labyrinth with many floors connected by steps and narrow dark hallways.

Pottery discovered demonstrated the commercial life of Knossos.
The theater of Knossos
The first paved Greek highway (1700 BC) a highway to the sea.
Two frescos showing the Minoans bringing offerings. Great examples of dress and pottery skills.
Close-up of the above frescoes
Images three levels down from the courtyard.

Later that day we went into the main modern city of Heraklion, Crete.

Fountain at the city square.

We walked the city streets and Marsha and I went to Saint Titus Church where we could hear singing of their Saturday service.

Outside of the church were soldiers and a military band.
Leaving the church, I was handed some homemade bread. This was divided into 41 pieces by Edwina and was used the next day for our communion service.

Looking back, it hard to believe that we were able to cram so much into such a few days. A special thanks to Bill and Edwina Greer for the expert planning!

Thanks to my readers for following.

Ellen

PS: My second blog from NYC after the trip. This has been a perfect place to write. The internet is FAST! My keyboard is now working with my phone, and at 5 AM I have the living area to myself! 5/27/24