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Archaeologists in Crete Uncover an Intact 3,500-Year-Old 'Minoan Bureau of Maritime Signal-Cryptography' and Rare Linear A Tablets

📅 April 13, 2026 📰 Mediterranean Archaeology Journal
Archaeologists in Crete Uncover an Intact 3,500-Year-Old 'Minoan Bureau of Maritime Signal-Cryptography' and Rare Linear A Tablets

Excavations at the coastal archaeological site of Kommos have led to the discovery of a specialized Minoan administrative wing dedicated to maritime security. The find includes a collection of rare Linear A tablets that appear to detail complex cryptographic codes used for communication between Minoan trade fleets and coastal signal stations.

Dr. Eleni Markakis, lead researcher on the project, noted that the presence of these tablets suggests a highly sophisticated system of nautical intelligence. The archive also contains bronze reflector templates, which archaeologists believe were used to create polished mirrors for long-distance signaling across the Mediterranean.

Original source: Mediterranean Archaeology Journal