This lecture will examine and interpret the position of the Minoan shoreline on the eastern coast of Crete and analyse the geomorphological features that shaped ship approaches and anchorages, as well as other harbour installations (e.g., rubble mound breakwaters, shipsheds). Through a systematic investigation of relative sea level changes in Crete during the Late Holocene, it will assess their impact on the coastscape of key Minoan sites, including Amnisos, Mochlos, Nirou Chani, Kommos, Kato Zakros, and Lasaia. The analysis will explore how coastal geomorphology was a decisive factor in the selection of specific locations for the establishment of coastal settlements and how subsequent marine transgression eliminated their harbouring advantages. By integrating evidence from geology and archaeology and fostering dialogue between geography and history, this talk will offer new insights into the interplay between human activity and the dynamic coastal landscape, culminating in a palaeogeographic reconstruction of the Minoan shoreline.
Dr. Nikos Mourtzas: Central Archaeological Council (ΚΑS), Hellenic Ministry of Culture; University of Nottingham, Department of Classics and Archaeology; Society for the Study of Ancient Coastlines (AKTES) NPO
Dr. Eleni Kolaiti: National Hellenic Research Foundation, Institute of Historical Research; University of Nottingham, Department of Classics and Archaeology; Society for the Study of Ancient Coastlines (AKTES) NPO
Please register for this lecture using the following link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/GGvLsYuLRCeUZC94tKFa7w