History of Crete
The history of Crete is known from the Neolithic ages. First European civilization, Minoan culture, appeared and achieved perfection exactly here (2500-1150 BC). The eruption of volcano on Santorini Island put an end to this civilization. The invasion of the Acheans and later the Dorians marked the end of the Minoan period. But there were other possibilities for further development because of sailing and relationships with the Egyptians and the Syrians.
Later Crete was occupied by Romans and was a part of Byzantine Empire before XII century. In 1204 Crete was occupied by Crusaders and sold to Venice. In 1645 the island was invaded by Moslems and since 1669 it was a part of Ottoman Empire. In 1913 Crete was joined to Greek state.