Evolution of Water Technologies and Corresponding Philosophy and Sciences Focusing on the Hellenic World through the Millennia

Abstract

In this review, hydro-technological advancements in the Hellenic world throughout the millennia are considered in relation to the scientific developments and perceptions of the natural world articulated by Greek thinkers. Starting with the advanced hydro technologies of the Minoan civilization, this review presents the state-of-the-art evaluation of the hydro technologies in Greek historical contexts. More precisely, this review focus on how, when, and where modern hydro technologies developed based on ancient technological achievements, and subsequently when technological achievements were totally forgotten in specific periods, such as the Iron Age (ca 1200–800 BC), only to be reinvented or rediscovered in subsequent periods. In most cases, information has been collected from different sources and was cross-matched with each other. The results observed from the literature and material evidence are compiled and presented in the form of a critical review study. With a few examples, comparisons to hydrologic and hydraulic developments in other civilizations are considered and discussed.