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Minoan seafaring Mystery Cache

Hidden : 5/20/2024
Difficulty:
2 out of 5
Terrain:
2.5 out of 5

Size: Size:   micro (micro)

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Geocache Description:


The cache is not hidden at the posted coordinates and it is not necessary to visit the place to get the final coordinates. However, there is a rocky peninsula, where a carved rock is still visible. In the Minoan era there was a shipyard with a length of 48 meters and a width of 11 meters for the construction of ships up to 50 meters long.

Minoan ships were a marvel of ancient engineering, combining strength and agility. Their hulls, crafted from the sturdy timber of Cretan forests, were designed to withstand the rigors of long sea voyages. The ships were sleek and slender, optimized for speed and maneuverability, as evidenced by frescoes depicting the use of multiple oars and large rectangular sails.

The Minoans introduced several key innovations that revolutionized ancient shipbuilding. Among these was the development of keel construction, enhancing the stability and seaworthiness of their vessels. The integration of advanced rigging systems and the use of reinforced joints and waterproofing techniques using resin and tar from local trees were pivotal in the construction of durable and reliable ships. These technological advancements not only improved the efficiency of their vessels but also laid the groundwork for future developments in maritime engineering.

The Minoan economy was based in the maritime trade of agricultural products such as wine, olives, figs and honey, as well as the export of timber and the famous Kamares pottery in exchange for minerals and other resources such as copper, ivory and spices.

Unique shipbuilding techniques and the maintenance of a formidable fleet were the foundation of Minoan naval trading power and dominance. The Minoans created an extensive network of trade routes across the Mediterranean, linking distant lands and cultures. Their ships sailed to the coasts of Egypt, Cyprus and the Levant.

Through their maritime ventures, the Minoans enabled the mutual spread of ideas, art and religious beliefs. The influence of Egyptian and Mesopotamian culture on Minoan art and architecture is evident in archaeological finds. On the other hand, the Minoans also left their mark on the cultures with which they interacted, as is evident from the spread of Minoan artistic styles and religious symbols throughout the Mediterranean.

Minoan Lines

The company MINOAN LINES was founded in 1972 in Heraklion. It is one of the biggest shipping companies in Europe. It connects the destinations of Heraklion, Piraeus, Ancona, Brindisi, Igoumenitsa, Corfu and Milos. Still, it does not reach the importance of the Minoan fleet ;-)

Source: Agii Theodori Minoan ShipyardMinoan Maritime TradeMinoan Lines

 

How to find the final coordinates


Just in case, a local cacher will provide maintenance assistance.

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Va gur Pregvghqr.

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)