Archaeologists on Crete have made an important discovery: a huge ancient building dating back to Minoan times. The Greek Ministry of Culture announced this find on Tuesday, revealing that the building was located on a hill nearly 500 meters high in Kastelli, where an airport radar was supposed to be installed. Culture Minister Lina Mendoni described it as a “unique and particularly interesting discovery.” The circular stone building covers an area of approximately 1800 square meters and is made up of eight interconnected rings with small openings, creating a structure that is described as “almost labyrinthine.” The archaeologists believe that the building was used for religious rituals over 3700 years ago, making it a groundbreaking discovery on Crete.
The Minoan culture, named after King Minos of Crete, existed from 2700 to 1200 BC and is considered the earliest advanced civilization in Europe. It likely extended over a large area of the Aegean Sea, including Crete and Santorini. This recent discovery sheds new light on the ancient civilization and provides valuable insights into the religious practices of the Minoans.
The significance of this finding cannot be overstated, as it represents a milestone in the study of Minoan history and culture. The building’s unique design and purpose offer clues about the religious beliefs and practices of the Minoans, providing a window into their society and worldview. Further research and analysis of this discovery will undoubtedly contribute to a deeper understanding of this fascinating ancient civilization.