The Technology of Land Reclamation, Drainage and Irrigation Projects in MBA–LBA Greece and Possible Implications

Abstract

Technology and its “products”, when unearthed from archaeologists, are irrefutable witnesses of the technological level of each era and place. Evaluation of archaeological finds in relation to the advanced technology of each era and compared to the ancient literature, could infer conclusions regarding the nature of relations between different civilizations. Metallurgy, construction technology and know-how (structures, flood-control works, Land Reclamation, Drainage and Irrigation works etc.), production and exchange of precious metals, silver and iron, as very rare metals, constituted “cutting-edge technology” for the Middle and the Late Bronze Age. In prosperity periods –of excessive wealth– the “Arts and Engineering” flourish, an advanced know-how in constructions is developed and monumental projects are launched. The examination of the technological level in (monumental) constructions and hydraulic works of Middle Bronze Age – Late Bronze Age (MBA, ca. 2200/2100-1580 B.C. – LBA, ca. 1600 – 1100 B.C.) Greece, and the environment that was shaped, as it is implied by the material evidence, could infer implications for the historical canvas of the period. There is a debate surrounding Technology and its “flow”, its nature and origins. Some researchers support the spread of innovation from East to West, and a contradictious aspect of cross-fertilization or diffusion between East and West. In the present study, a combination of the archaeological evidence (both material and textual) of the technological level in constructions –especially in MBA and LBA Greece– and metal production, the ancient literature, the written sources, is attempted, in order to infer conclusions for the Technological, environmental, cultural and socio-economic aspects regarding possible relations and exchanges of Technology among Minoan Crete and/or Mycenaean Greeks -Danaoi/Achaeans, as Homer calls them- with Egypt and the land of Hatti, specifically during the Middle and Late Bronze Age.