| The migratory wave of the Achaeans to Crete preceded the descent of the Dorians. This is demonstrated not only by the surviving Achaean elements in Doric dialects of central Crete, but also by certain archaeological finds reflecting the influence of Mycenaean culture, which was transmitted by the Achaeans. The following are attributed to the transfer of Mycenaean customs to Crete during the Late Minoan period: a) the existence of a Mycenaean megaron in the Minoan city of Gournia; b) the large number of Late Minoan tombs, displaying greater care in the burial of the dead; c) the appearance of tholos tombs; d) the custom of cutting niches and trenches in rock tombs; e) the sanctity attributed to coal; f) the placing of figurines in tombs; g) the depiction of the cult of the dead on the sarcophagus of Agia Triada. |