In this detailed and well argued study Malcolm Cross explores the Classical and Hellenistic achievement of Crete's city states, arguing that in many respects, not least their longevity they surpassed that of the more famous city states of mainland Greece. He discusses their laws, consitutions and practical governance, as well as social structures and economies, highlighting significant developments and presenting a picture of an advanced and commericialised society with stable systems of law and administration. Also included is a gazetteer describing 65 of Crete's Classical and Hellenistic sites, many of them little known.