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In the new palatial period (1700-1450 BC), the Minoan civilization peaks; the Minoans build larger palaces and trade goods with people outside Crete. They develop a script, Linear A, yet to be deciphered. The new palace period ends in 1450, due to natural causes (earthquake?) coupled with internal unrest.

Libation vase of rock crystal, with gilded ivory disks on the neck ring, from Zakros, 1500-1450 BC.