In the land of the Minotaur: exploring the Minoan civilisation

The Minoan civilisation appeared and flourished in Crete, Greece, in the 3rd and 2nd millennia BCE. It is considered by many as the first European civilisation, because it gave us the earliest complex European societies. It was also a substantial artistic, trading and religious force in the prehistoric Aegean and the Eastern Mediterranean. How did it appear? What was the extent of its influence during and after the Bronze Age? Why and how did it fall into decline?

Join us as we examine this fascinating piece of (pre) history by critically approaching its discovery and interpretation. Through theoretical and practical approaches, we will learn how to engage with a past civilisation, its sources and interpretations, as well as to develop our research skills. Among other topics, we will examine politics, societies, cults, economy and propaganda, all through sound archaeological evidence and the most recent discoveries available to us.

During this course, we will use substantial visual materials, including some documentary footage, and interactive exercises, as well as replicas of ancient artefacts. No prior knowledge is required, apart from a keen interest.