Archaic period

Also known as the Orientalizing or Daedalic period (7th and 6th centuries BC), this was a time marked by the rise of powerful cities such as Knossos, Dreros, Lato, Gortyn, Aptera, Praisos and others, all of which were well laid out and had an agora, laws and a centre of power.

The legal ordinances inscribed on stones built into a temple at Dreros are of particular note; these date back to the 7th century BC and are the oldest known laws in Greek. The farming based economy was supplemented by trading activity, which increased on account of the island's strategic position.

Carving and sculpture flourished as oriental features were introduced and assimilated into art.