History of Crete

Crete, known as Megalonisos by the Greeks, has a rich history of foreign rule and cultural interaction. It has been ruled by Mycenaeans, Dorians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Venetians, Ottoman Turks, and the Third Reich. Two periods, the Minoan civilization's apogee and the brief period of autonomy before union with Greece in the twentieth century, contrast this history. Moorey's book provides an engaging and lively account of Crete from the Stone Age to the present day.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 444 pages
Publication date: 18 May 2020
Publisher: Haus Publishing

Crete, known by the Greeks as Megalonisos, holds a paramount strategic significance for thousands of years, owing to its advantageous location at the intersection of three continents and at the heart of the eastern Mediterranean. Throughout its history, the island has been ruled by foreign invaders such as the Mycenaeans, Dorians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Venetians, Ottoman Turks, and, briefly, the Third Reich. Consequently, a significant portion of Crete's past revolves around the interactions between the Cretans, renowned for their fierce love of freedom, and their conquerors, as well as the impact of foreign rule on their culture.

Two distinct periods at either end of these three thousand years of dominance provide an intriguing contrast. The first is the dazzling apogee of the Minoan civilization, a time of remarkable cultural and artistic achievements. The second is the brief period of autonomy before Crete's union with Greece at the beginning of the twentieth century. Author Moorey has crafted an engaging and lively account of Crete, spanning from the Stone Age to the present day.

The strategic importance of Crete has been recognized since ancient times. The island's location at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and Asia made it a coveted prize for conquerors throughout history. The Minoan civilization, which flourished on Crete between 3000 and 1100 BCE, was one of the most advanced societies of its time, known for its impressive architecture, intricate pottery, and advanced religious beliefs.

However, Crete's dominance was not to last. The island was invaded by the Mycenaeans, a powerful Greek civilization, in the late Bronze Age. The Mycenaeans established a powerful kingdom on Crete, which lasted for several centuries until it was conquered by the Dorians, another Greek civilization, in the mid-fifth century BCE.

The Dorians brought with them a new culture and way of life to Crete. They introduced the Greek alphabet, which allowed for the development of written language and the recording of history. They also built impressive fortifications, such as the Knossos Palace, which is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.

The Dorians were followed by the Romans, who conquered Crete in the third century BCE. The Romans brought with them a new political system, as well as technological advancements such as the construction of roads and aqueducts. They also introduced Christianity to Crete, which became the dominant religion on the island for many centuries.

The Roman rule of Crete was eventually replaced by the Byzantine Empire, which ruled the island from the fourth to the ninth century CE. The Byzantines were known for their religious devotion and artistic achievements, particularly in the field of mosaic art. They also built many churches and monasteries on Crete, which are still visited by tourists today.

The Byzantine rule of Crete was followed by the Arab invasion, which occurred in the seventh century CE. The Arabs brought with them a new religion, Islam, and a new way of life to Crete. They ruled the island for several centuries until they were defeated by the Venetians, who established their rule on Crete in the ninth century CE.

The Venetians were known for their maritime prowess and trade. They established colonies on the island and traded with other Mediterranean civilizations, such as Greece and Egypt. They also built many impressive fortifications, such as the Fortress of Rethymno, which is considered one of the best-preserved medieval fortifications in Europe.

The Venetians were followed by the Ottoman Turks, who conquered Crete in the fifteenth century CE. The Ottoman Turks ruled the island for several centuries until they were defeated by the Greek army in the Greek War of Independence in 1821 CE.

The Greek War of Independence marked the end of Ottoman rule on Crete and the beginning of Greek rule. The Greek government established a new administrative system on the island, which was based on the principles of democracy and human rights. Crete became a province of the Greek state and was renamed "Euboea" in honor of the ancient Greek region of Euboea.

Since then, Crete has undergone significant changes. The island has been influenced by the cultures of other Mediterranean civilizations, such as the Italians and the Germans, as well as by the Greek government. Crete has also been affected by the global economy, with many tourists visiting the island each year to enjoy its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant culture.

In conclusion, Crete's history is a testament to its strategic importance and its ability to adapt to changing circumstances. The island has been ruled by a succession of foreign invaders, each of whom has left their mark on Crete's culture and society. From the Minoan civilization to the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Arab invasion, the Venetian rule, the Ottoman Turkish rule, and the Greek War of Independence, Crete has experienced a rich and complex history that continues to shape its identity today.

Weight: 388g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 41 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781912208968