As with so many things on Crete, this newspaper's regular monthly column, Woman in Charge, could certainly have its roots in the Dark Ages!

Recently unearthed tombs of Orthi Petra at Eleutherna reveal a dynasty of priestesses, consisting of priestess of Zeus and three acolytes, who reigned here almost 3,000 years ago. 

Led by archaeologist Nicholas Stampolidis, the team dates the four burials to 2,800 years ago. Earlier digs had discovered the cremated remains of other priestesses, buried together in large "pithoi" jars from 2,900 to 2,700 years ago. All of the women appear related, based on distinctive features of their teeth, the team reports, adding that what's really remarkable is that the find shows these women were a dynasty that lasted at least 200 years.