Labyrinth: Knossos Myth and Reality

The famous Labyrinth of Crete, which housed the Minotaur, was the subject of Greek myth. Travelers looked for it from the Middle Ages, but it was only in 1878 that a Cretan archaeologist discovered evidence of a Bronze Age palace. British Archaeologist Arthur Evans uncovered the remains of the palace between 1900 and 1931 and named it the "Minoans." The Evans Archive contains his findings, theories, and reconstructions, which were accurate in some places but deeply flawed in others.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 19 January 2023
Publisher: Ashmolean Museum

Crete, renowned in Greek myth as the dwelling of the labyrinth where the Minotaur was imprisoned within a palace at the site known as 'Knossos,' has captivated the attention of travelers throughout history. From the Middle Ages onwards, explorers embarked on futile quests to locate this enigmatic labyrinth. Despite the passage of time, a few clues managed to survive, including a coin featuring a labyrinth design and numerous small bronze age artifacts. While the name 'Knossos' lingered, it revealed nothing more than a mere scattering of houses and farmland, prompting them to explore other regions.

Finally, in 1878, the remarkable discovery was made by a Cretan archaeologist named Minos Kalokairinos. British Archaeologist and then Keeper of the Ashmolean Arthur Evans, upon hearing of the site, paid a visit and was utterly captivated by its significance. Between 1900 and 1931, Evans embarked on a remarkable journey of exploration, uncovering the remnants of a colossal palace that he believed to be the dwelling of King Minos. In recognition of the inhabitants of this magnificent structure, he coined the term 'Minoans' to describe them.

Supported by a team of archaeologists, architects, and artists, Evans meticulously pieced together the story of the Bronze Age community that once inhabited this elaborate building. Through his interpretations and reconstructions, he envisioned a sophisticated and nature-loving civilization that reached its peak and subsequently declined. While Evans's findings were accurate in certain aspects, they also exhibited profound flaws in other areas. The Evans Archive, housed at the Ashmolean, serves as a testament to his discoveries, theories, and often contentious reconstructions.

Weight: 1256g
Dimension: 220 x 281 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781910807552