‘Technology’ Archives
Making Olive Oil
While the morning air is still cool, we are off on a hike through the three villages above Limin Hersonisou. Just downhill from our apartment, we pass the olive oil factory (now a stylish café) on the central street of the village. It makes us wonder where the local farmers have their olives processed these [Read More]
River in the Underworld
Our visit to Kerameikos has made us curious about Eridanos, the stream that appears out of nowhere at the Sacred Gate of ancient Athens. In Greek mythology, Eridanos was a river god of Attica – where Athens is located. In other myths, however, it is mentioned as a river of the Underworld – the realm [Read More]
Aqueduct
Returning from a visit to Knossos and some of the valley towns to the south, we see the remains of an aqueduct not far from the road. This one was built during the brief Egyptian rule of the island (1832-40) to provide water to Irakion. It is in the ancient Roman style, and along the [Read More]
A Guide to Archaeological Digs
I have never met an archaeologist who carried a pistol (let alone a bull whip) while working in the field. In fact, just mentioning the name “Indiana Jones” usually elicits laughter from real archaeologists. Their profession is not an escapade or a game of chance; it’s a science that requires study and a lot of [Read More]
Archaeological Digs – Part 2: Conserving the Past
In the previous installment (Archaeological Digs – Part 1), we told you how the ancient site at Priniatikos Pyrgos was excavated by archaeologists. In this report we consider what happens to things found during the dig. Unearthed items are studied to learn about the people and culture that created or used them. Afterward these objects [Read More]