6 listings found

Livari Minoan coastal settlement

Category: Archaeological site, Areas of Interest, Uncertain location
Region: Lasithi, Siteia
Livari, located on Crete's southeastern coast, is a significant archaeological site with evidence of human occupation from the Mesolithic to Venetian periods. The area, characterized by a coastal plain and low hills, includes sites like Cheromylia, Kastrokephalaki, and Chlios, revealing Minoan settlements and early hunter-gatherer activities. Archaeological campaigns have documented lithic assemblages from the Mesolithic, Bronze Age remains, and structures from the Classical/Hellenistic and Venetian eras, including a possible watchtower. Despite poor preservation, erosion, and vegetation cover, Livari provides crucial insights into early human activity, Minoan civilization, and cultural transitions in the Aegean. Studies document topography, structures, and landmarks, correcting misconceptions and emphasizing the site's importance for understanding Crete's broader archaeological context.

Ancient Lykastos

Category: Archaeological site, Areas of Interest, Uncertain location
Region: Heraklion, Heraklion municipality
An ancient city in Crete, located at the Vitsilia site near modern Profitis Ilias and known primarily from literary sources. First mentioned in Homer's Iliad's Catalogue of Ships, its mythological founder was Lykastos, a son of King Minos. During the Hellenistic era, the city was destroyed by the neighboring city-state of Knossos. Its territory subsequently became a point of contention, with Gortys seizing it and granting it to Rhaukos. Roman intervention in 185 BCE ultimately divided the lands between Knossos and Lyktos.

Hierapytna

Category: Archaeological site, Areas of Interest, Uncertain location
Region: Ierapetra, Lasithi
Hierapytna, located on the southern coast of Crete, was founded in the Geometric period (c. 9th century BC). The city was a major hub for trade and commerce in ancient times and played a significant role in the island's political and military affairs. Hierapytna flourished during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. It became part of the Byzantine Empire after the division of the Roman Empire. Following the Arab conquest of Crete in the 9th century, Hierapytna was abandoned. Modern archaeological investigations have revealed a wealth of information about the city, including its city walls, agora, temple, theater, and private houses.

Pergamos Ancient City

Category: Archaeological site, Areas of Interest, Uncertain location
Region: Chania, Platanias
Pergamos (Πέργαμος) was a city of ancient Crete, founded in the 8th century BC. It was one of the hundred cities of Crete mentioned by Homer in his works. It […]

Ancient Oleros

Category: Archaeological site, Uncertain location
Region: Ierapetra, Lasithi
Oleros was an ancient Cretan city inhabited from the Early Iron Age until the Roman period. It was known for its olive oil production and political involvement in Crete.