Intact late Minoan tomb found in Crete

An unlooted chamber tomb containing, among others, a larnax coffin with a well-preserved skeleton of an adult in a contracted position, as well as vases in an excellent state of preservation, were excavated in the area of Ierapetra, eastern Crete, by the Lassithi Ephorate of Antiquities.

Credit: Lassithi Ephorate of Antiquities

According to a statement from the Culture Ministry, the tomb was found during a salvage excavation conducted in an olive grove located at Rousses, about 800 metres northeast of the village of Kentri, Ierapetra.

A pit with a diametre of 1.20m and a depth of more than 2.5m was excavated in the grove after which “a chamber tomb was discovered, dug into the soft limestone of the area. The access to the tomb was made by a vertical shaft, while the entrance was sealed by stone masonry.”

Credit: Lassithi Ephorate of Antiquities

The interior of the tomb was divided into three carved chambers, said the statement. An intact larnax coffin with the cover in place was found in the most southern one. The well-preserved skeleton was found inside. Fourteen ritual amphorae, an amphorae krater with an extended base and a drinking cup were found in front of the coffin.

In the northern chamber was found another larnax with another adult skeleton and additional vases near it. All vases are intact, of good craftsmanship and in an excellent state of preservation.

Credit: Lassithi Ephorate of Antiquities

The announcement said that “according to the ceramic typology, and according to the first estimates, the tomb can be dated to the Late Minoan IIIA-B period, approximately from 1400 to 1200 BC.”

Source: Greek Ministry of Culture [August 23, 2018]

TANN

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