Ancient Aegean Culture

Snake Goddess

This Minoan figure was thought to be divine because she can fearlessly handle a snake and she has a cat sitting on her head. Her lack of clothing over her chest led generations of archaeologists and art historians to believe that all Greek women dressed that way.

Bull Jumping Fresco

Minoan fresco of an acrobatic event which tested the bravado of young men. (1500 BCE)

Palace of Knossos - painted by Sir Arthur Evans

Minoan palace which was thought to be the mythical maze of the Minotaur. Restored by this crackpot archaeologist.

Cycladic Female Figurines

These were found on a chain of islands just south of the Greek coast in the Aegean Sea. They range in size from 6 to 26 inches. (2500-2400 BCE)

Minoan Female Figurines

These were found on the island of Crete. They are similar to the Cycladic Female Figurines and the Venus of Willendorf, but this figurine is sitting down with her fingers showing.

Mask of Agamemnon

This Mycenaean death mask was found in a grave shaft at the Citadel of Mycenae. It is thought to be the face of a hero of the Trojan War, a member of the family of Atreus. It is now thought to be a hoax.

Treasury of Atreus (inside)

This burial site was thought by archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann to be the royal storage of Agamemnon's family. It is an example of a corbeled-vault construction. (inside)

Treasury of Atreus (outside)

This burial site was thought by archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann to be the royal storage of Agamemnon's family. It is an example of a corbeled-vault construction. (outside)

Boxers Fresco at Thera

This fresco was discovered in an ancient Minoan city which was covered by a volcanic eruption, preserving the rich colors.

Lion Gate at the Citadel of Mycenae

This is an entrance to a great fortress, designed to be impenetrable. The relief was fit into a cyclopean vault by a conquering force.

Octopus Amphora Vase

This type of vase was used to carry wine and olive oil. Minoans used marine images to decorate their palaces and vases.

Palace of Knossos - aerial view

Aerial view of Minoan palace which was thought to be the mythical maze of the Minotaur.

Thera - archaeological site

Ancient Minoan city which was covered by a volcanic eruption, preserving much of its city walls and artifacts.