Minos of Knossos

AncientEmperorMinoan Crete-1700 — -1650

Legendary king, son of Zeus and Europa, lawgiver of Crete.

Compare:vs Napoleon vs Julius Caesar

Quick Facts

Born

1700 BCE

Died

1650 BCE

Country

Minoan Crete

Era

Ancient

Occupation

Emperor

Score Overview

Military (10%)27

Political (20%)72

Influence (20%)72

Legacy (20%)69

Leadership (15%)72

Strategy (15%)30

Total Score60.5

Minos of Knossos — Complete Timeline

1700 BC

Received the laws of Crete from ZeusReform◆ Major

According to tradition, Minos received the laws of Crete directly from Zeus on Mount Ida. These laws became the foundation of Minoan civilization and were later admired by Greek lawmakers such as Lycurgus.

LawMythologyCrete

Impact: regionalconstructive

Commissioned the construction of the LabyrinthCultural◆ Major

Minos ordered the architect Daedalus to build the Labyrinth at Knossos to contain the Minotaur, a half-man, half-bull monster born from his wife Pasiphae's union with a sacred bull.

ArchitectureMythologyMonster

Impact: regional

Demanded tribute of Athenian youths for the MinotaurPolitical Action◆ Major

After his son Androgeus was killed in Athens, Minos waged war and forced Athens to send seven youths and seven maidens every nine years to be fed to the Minotaur in the Labyrinth.

TributeWarAthens

Impact: regionaldestructive