Weapons that dominated Europe for more than 3,000 years were introduced by the ancient Minoan civilisation, according to a new study. Swords, metal battle axes, long bladed spears, shields and possibly even armour were brought to Europe by the Minoans who ruled Crete. The finding overturns the popular perception originally put forward by archaeologists that Ancient Crete was one of the most peaceful civilisations in history. Scroll down to video The palace of Knossos reveals an advanced and organised society. Since towns and palaces in Crete, the home of the mythical Minotaur, were first dug up and studied a century ago the Minoans have been widely regarded by archaeologists as an essentially peaceful people.
@highlight
Minoan culture was permeated by warfare and violence
@highlight
Weapons used in Crete remained in use until advent of gunpowder
‘There were few spheres of interaction in @placeholder that did not have a martial component, right down to the symbols used in their written scripts.’