The Neolithic Period in Crete

The Neolithic Period in Crete (6000-2600 BC)

Archaeological excavations carried out on the island show that people have lived on Crete since at least 6000BC. However, in 2008-9 excavations in the Plakias region of southern Crete revealed stone tools that were at least 130,000 years old and seems to indicate that early Homo sapiens crossed from Africa into Crete.

Ruins from the Neolithic period have been discovered at Knossos, Phaestos and Sitia and it seems that these early settlers were stock-breeders of cattle, sheep, goats and pigs and farmed cereals and legumes. Their habitations were caves and houses constructed from local materials such as slate.

Evidence of been discovered at caves at Ilithia, Stravouitis, Ellinospileo and Trapeza Lasithiou. Artefacts excavated from this period include pottery, tools, weapons and blades made from stone or bone. Also remains of offerings, presumed to be to the goddess of fertility, have been discovered. .