On the island of Crete, the first high culture on European soil emerged around 2000 BC, which still evokes wonder in modern observers and presents numerous puzzles to science. The Minoans built monumental palaces in a region prone to earthquakes, developed various writing systems, adorned their spaces with magnificent frescoes, promoted craftsmanship, and dominated the Aegean Sea with their ships. This book will present the success story of this island people, its social structure, and its significant influence on the Mediterranean world, offering not only a very current academic textbook for students but also an exciting read for discerning laypeople and Cretan enthusiasts.