The present detailed archaeological-historical guide with its wealth of illustrations is based on the findings of modern scholarly research. Like a second Ariadne’s thread, it escorts the Museum visitor and the reader among the exhibits, guiding them through the beguiling labyrinth of Cretan archaeology. It traces the evolution from the Neolithic communities until the brilliant Minoan civilization – Europe’s first advanced culture, whose most famous creations are on display in the Museum. The complex structures, cultural reach and mythic echoes of this civilization are brought to life. The important collections of historical times are also described in this guide, as they represent the creative side of Crete as part of the Greek and then the Roman worlds. Also included in this presentation are short illustrated overviews of the main archaeological sites which have yielded particularly valuable exhibits.