Educational Game Guide
Treasures of Knossos: Minoan Dolphins Puzzle
Use this puzzle to introduce young scholars to authentic ancient art, Minoan culture, and the basic tenets of art history and appreciation. You can find some age-appropriate talking points below!
The ancient Minoans lived on the island of Crete, with a large palace at Knossos.
Although we think of ancient buildings as pristine and white, they were really full of color!
The palace was discovered by Sir Arthur Evans in March of 1900. The layout was complex and the art was full of bull motifs, which led Evans to the belief that he had found the palace that inspired the story of Minos and the Minotaur.
As an island civilization, the sea was an essential part of Minoan life. This was reflected in their art, which often included marine life.
Of course, that includes dolphins, just like those featured in Treasures of Knossos: Minoan Dolphins!
So, what happened to the Minoans?
The Minoans were a powerful force in the Mediterranean until they were absorbed by the Mycenean Greeks sometime in the 15th century BCE. A volcanic eruption that destroyed the island of Thera around a century before was perhaps one cause of their collapse.