Which civilization had the most fortifications?
A. Cycladic
B. Minoan
C. Mycenaean
D. Harappan
I think it's C.
I agree.
To determine which civilization had the most fortifications, we can analyze the historical records and archaeological evidence related to each civilization's defensive structures.
1. Cycladic civilization: The Cycladic civilization, which thrived in the Aegean Sea around 3200-2000 BCE, is known for its impressive marble figurines, but there is limited evidence of extensive fortified structures associated with this civilization. Therefore, we can eliminate option A.
2. Minoan civilization: The Minoan civilization was centered on the island of Crete around 2600-1100 BCE. The Minoans were advanced in architecture and urban planning, maintaining well-built palace complexes like the famous Palace of Knossos. However, while there were defensive features incorporated within these palace complexes (such as walls and gateways), there is limited evidence of widespread fortifications around Minoan settlements. Hence, we can rule out option B.
3. Mycenaean civilization: The Mycenaean civilization existed on the Greek mainland from approximately 1600-1100 BCE. They are famous for their massive fortified palace complexes, such as the palaces at Mycenae and Tiryns. These structures were heavily fortified with large stone walls, gateways, and defensive towers. The Mycenaeans also utilized defensive techniques like the use of the "Cyclopean masonry" technique, which involved the construction of walls with massive stone blocks. Therefore, it is correct to say that the Mycenaeans had a significant number of fortifications. Thus, option C is a valid choice.
4. Harappan civilization: The Harappan civilization, or the Indus Valley civilization, flourished in the Indus River Valley around 2600-1900 BCE in what is now modern-day India and Pakistan. While this civilization had well-planned cities with sophisticated sewage and water systems, the evidence for extensive fortifications is relatively scarce. There are some indications of fortifications around certain Harappan cities, but they were not as widespread or elaborate as those found in the Mycenaean civilization. Consequently, we can exclude option D.
Based on the analysis of the given civilizations and their fortification evidence, we can conclude that the Mycenaean civilization (option C) had the most fortifications.