Between Mycenaean culture and Minoan tradition : social dynamics in Crete at the end of the Bronze Age
Part of : Mediterranean archaeology & archaeometry : international journal ; Vol.3, No.2, 2003, pages 17-34
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17-34
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Articles
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Abstract:
During the Mycenaean rule of Knossos the island of Crete underwent a deep cultural changethat involved every aspect of social life. After the destruction of palace of Knossos, in LM III A2, wecan see a decentralization of economical and political power, previously monopolized by this centre.The new centres tried to legitimise their own power by adopting the Mycenaean burial customs.Starting from LM III C, the situation in Crete changed. Refugee-settlements were founded and newnecropoleis were established. The burial ritual in some areas of the island shows a renewed linkwith Minoan tradition. The use of tholoi, burial caves and older buildings, the return in fashion ofsome methods of burial, the presence/absence of some objects amongst the burial furniturerepresent, chiefly in Eastern Crete, a will to continue the traditional culture, departing from thestrong Mycenaean culture of the previous period and still present on the island. The presence ofdifferent rites in Crete in this period could be the sign of strong competition between the insularcentres or of an attempt to affirm different cultural identities.
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Keywords:
burial customs, tholos, enclosure, burial caves, cremation, Minoan religion, cultural identity
