The Treasure of Milos
Obsidian from the island of Milos, found in Franchthi Cave, shows seafaring in Greece began over 11,000 years ago in the Palaeolithic era.
Milos, an island in Greece, held a treasure that shaped the early development of human civilization in the region: obsidian, a volcanic glass prized for its sharpness and durability.
Archaeological discoveries of Melian obsidian dating back to the Upper Palaeolithic provide evidence for early seafaring in Greece, demonstrating that Aegean peoples were capable of organized navigation as early as 11,000 years ago.
Molten lava cools rapidly to form obsidian, a natural glass with a razor-sharp edge.
The circulation of obsidian from Milos shows the significance of this material in the prehistoric world.
Author's summary: Milos' obsidian shaped human civilization.