The Greek civilization began to develop around 2000 B.C., when the Minoan culture was established on the island of Crete. This civilization then spread to other parts of Greece, including the mainland area that is now known as Athens. The ancient Greeks lived in small city-states, which are cities that are independent from each other and ruled by a single ruler or government. Each city had its own courts, laws and military forces, but they were all part of the same country under one king or queen. The most important cities in Greece were Athens, Sparta and Corinth.
They were polytheistic and believed in many gods and goddesses.
The ancient Greeks worshipped many gods and goddesses for different reasons: some gods were associated with nature (such as the sun god Apollo); others with war (such as Ares); others with wisdom (such as Athena); some were protectors (such as Artemis); others brought wealth (such as Demeter); and still others were patrons of healing arts like Asclepius or Hygeia who could bring you good health if you prayed to them.
The ancient Greeks were known for their great architectural achievements, including the Parthenon and the Great Wall of China (Macedonia).
