EASTERN CRETE

C H A P T E R 5
The peak
sanctuary on
Mount Petsofas
is one of the few
sacred sites
with remains of
a shrine
A quantity of
clay scarabs
have been
found at the
peak sanctuary
of Prinias
could more easily manifest themselves. The
mountain belonged to the gods, and to
indicate the sacredness of the place was
unnecessary.
The Minoans brought precious
offerings to the gods - objects in gold, ivory
and bronze, or spontaneous gifts modelled
in clay: domestic animals such as goats,
oxen, bulls and sheep, but also birds, snakes,
tortoises and insects and many figurines,
both male and female, in the gesture of
worship with both arms raised above the
head or with a closed fist held to the
forehead. They invoked the benevolence
of the gods, for a good year, for an abundant
harvest or for the healing of their physical
ills: many feet, hands, arms, legs and little
heads have been found in the crevasses
between the rocks, along with miniature
vases and objects of domestic and
agricultural use.
Votive
offerings were
hidden in
fissures and
cracks in the
rocks
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