The Minoan civilization flourished on the island of Crete in the Aegean Sea during the Bronze Age (c. 2700–1450 BCE).

It is considered the first advanced civilization in Europe, known for its large and complex palace structures.

The largest palace, at Knossos, was a sprawling complex with living quarters, workshops, and storerooms, and is associated with the myth of the Minotaur.

Minoan art is characterized by vibrant frescoes depicting scenes of nature, marine life, and ritual activities like bull-leaping.

They developed a writing system known as Linear A, which remains undeciphered.

The Minoans were a major maritime power, controlling trade throughout the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean.

Their religion appears to have focused on goddesses, with the 'snake goddess' being a prominent figure.

Unlike the later Mycenaeans, their palaces were unfortified, suggesting a period of relative peace.

The civilization declined rapidly around 1450 BCE, possibly due to the volcanic eruption of Thera (Santorini) or invasion by the Mycenaeans.

The Minoans were named after the mythical King Minos of Crete by archaeologist Arthur Evans.