The Sacred Landscape at Leska and Minoan Kythera

This book explores the archaeological findings at a peak sanctuary on Minoan Kythera, detailing its significance and the artifacts discovered. The Sacred Landscape at Leska and Minoan Kythera offers insights into Minoan religious practices.

This volume presents the results of the survey and excavation of a second peak sanctuary on Minoan Kythera at Leska. An introduction to the archaeological background of the island is provided, along with a discussion on peak sanctuaries both there and in Minoan Crete. The findings from Leska shed light on the practices and beliefs of the Minoan civilization, emphasizing the importance of these sacred sites in their culture.

The research conducted at Leska reveals the diachronic use of the summit, with analyses of material remains such as pottery, figurines, stone vessels, tools, and jewelry. These artifacts allow for a deeper understanding of the cultic practices and the role of the landscape in Minoan society. The book highlights the significance of the natural environment in shaping religious practices and how these spaces were sacralized during the Middle Minoan IB to Late Minoan IB phases.

The Sacred Landscape at Leska and Minoan Kythera provides a broader analysis of the sacred landscapes on Kythera, offering a unique perspective on Aegean religion during the Minoan period. Through detailed discussions, this volume contributes to our understanding of how the Minoans interacted with their environment and the ways in which their religious beliefs were intertwined with the landscape.