The first human inhabitants of Knossos probably arrived there from Anatolia in the 7th millennium BC. C. and established an agricultural society based on wheat and livestock breeding. At the beginning of the early Minoan period (3000-2000 BC) they began to use bronze and make glazed pottery, engraved seals and gold jewelry. A hieroglyphic writing was invented and trade with the Egyptians began.
The first palace at Knossos was built at the beginning of the Middle Minoan period (2000-1580 BC). It consisted of isolated structures built around a rectangular courtyard. During this period, Knossos produced fine polychrome pottery on a black glazed background. Around 1720 BC. C., a destructive earthquake devastated most of Knossos. The palace was rebuilt, this time with wide colonnades and flights of stairs connecting the different buildings on the mountainous site. The remains of this palace currently occupy the excavated site.
