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The culture is divided into three periods Early Minoan (c.3000 B.C.–2200 B.C.), Middle Minoan (c.2200 B.C.–1500 B.C.), and Late Minoan (c.1500 B.C.–1000 B.C.).
The Minoans seem to have been a cheerful and pleasure loving people. Their buildings and palaces were multi-storied and customarily complex. The royal living quarters contained bathrooms and interior light wells.
Their religion centered around the Mother Goddess, she was worshiped in simple woodland shrines not large ornate temples. She was offered fruit, flowers and the occasional bull was sacrificed. Peasant houses were protected by a snake goddess who was represented in small figurines.
The Minoan men were known throughout the ancient world as accomplished mariners. They possessed large fleets and had no shortage of wood for shipbuilding The social system was feudal and theocratic. Because of their stable system, the Minoans enjoyed continuous peace. This made possible enormous cultural progress as well as a pleasant, gracious way of life.