A Short Overview of the History of Greece

So you're traveling to Greece? That's wonderful, you're about to go to a place in the cradle of civilization. The earliest known civilization in Greece is the Minoans who showed up around 2700 BC and lasted all the way until 1450 BC. Not much is known about these people that are called the Minoans. No one knows exactly how they ceased to exist, but it is known that they were invaded by Mycenaean invaders from mainland Greece.

Bronze age Greece or otherwise known as the Mycenaean civilization started around eleven hundred bc. This is the setting where much of the Greek mythology is set, and is the setting for many famous works and people, in particular the works of Homer and such. As I've stated earlier eventually they would extend their control to Crete and take over the civilization known as the Minoans. These Greeks were well known for their traditions and in how they honored their warriors and noble caste's alike. They buried their nobles in beehive tombs which were large burial chambers with huge vaulted roofs. Nobles were buried in sitting position, and some were actually mummified like the nobles in Egypt. Tiaras, crowns, gold and masks as well as armor also accompanied the ancient nobles in their next life by being buried with them.

The next age is the dark ages, this era spans from the Dorian invasion and the end of the Mycenaean civilization all the way to the foundation of Greek's city states. A big reason for the fall of the Greeks at this time was the invasion of the sea peoples who wielded what? Iron Weapons. At the end of this period the country was revived into a state of culture and grace never seen before. Their empire would eventually expand to places as far off a Spain.

Ancient Greece is the final period I will discuss. This is the period in which many are interested. In the times of legend the pantheon was born. Also the Greek city states excelled in culture, combat and politics revolving into a greatly refined country of its time. There were many wars, Sparta was in a great deal of them as city states battled each other and foreign invaders like Xerses and the Persian Empire. So if you're a fan of the movie three hundred this is for you. If you travel to Greece you can walk on the battlefields of Sparta, locate the golden city of troy and much much more. So if you're a history buff this place is for you, check it out today!