Algorithms, Roads, and Narratives: Navigating Ancient Crete

Research coordinator

Vyron AntoniadisSenior Researcher

Read more about this Funded Project

The study of ancient roads in Crete has often been limited to specific historical periods and regions. The project Algorithms, Roads, and Narratives: Navigating Ancient Crete (ARNAC), led by Dr. Vyron Antoniadis, focuses on the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools, particularly least-cost path analysis, to investigate the ancient roads of Crete. The project aims to produce a comprehensive picture of the island’s ancient road network, from Minoan times through the Late Roman period, and to develop a guide of best practices for least-cost path analysis, with applications both in Crete and other regions. With an emphasis on interdisciplinary approach, the project stands out for testing least-cost path methods across the entire island, integrating diverse methodological perspectives and drawing on archaeological and topographical findings, ancient and modern sources, as well as anthropological data. Additionally, it intends to provide free open access to its research findings for both the academic community and the public through an online application.