The city-state was on the island Crete, near located on the coast of the only freshwater lake, Lake Kournas. Crete is located at 35.2100° N, 24.9100° E and is 3,219 square miles. The lake is relatively small, about 1,100 m by 880 m. It’s deepest point is at a depth of 22.5 m. Mountains surrounded it; they served as natural barriers against enemies. The island's highest point is 8,058 ft on Mt. Ida.
On average, Crete's climate ranges from 52℉ to 79℉. It has hot, dry summers and rainy, humid winters. The wettest month was December, with the average of 89mm of rain. The summers can be as hot as 95 degrees fahrenheit. Crete's agriculture flourishes in the spring, fall, and winter and suffers in the summer. Though it does not snow near the coasts, the mountains receive large amounts of snow. Additionally, it has many natural resources. They include timber, food, cypress wood, wine, currants, olive oil, wool, cloth, citrus fruit, raisins, herbs, honey, dairy products, and purple dye. Though crops are not able to be grown in the mountains, livestock is bred. Purple dye was important because purple is the color of royalty. Many wealthy people bought it, making it a very beneficial product.
On average, Crete's climate ranges from 52℉ to 79℉. It has hot, dry summers and rainy, humid winters. The wettest month was December, with the average of 89mm of rain. The summers can be as hot as 95 degrees fahrenheit. Crete's agriculture flourishes in the spring, fall, and winter and suffers in the summer. Though it does not snow near the coasts, the mountains receive large amounts of snow. Additionally, it has many natural resources. They include timber, food, cypress wood, wine, currants, olive oil, wool, cloth, citrus fruit, raisins, herbs, honey, dairy products, and purple dye. Though crops are not able to be grown in the mountains, livestock is bred. Purple dye was important because purple is the color of royalty. Many wealthy people bought it, making it a very beneficial product.
Interactive Map