Horns of Consecration

A common religious symbol of the Minoans, based on the horns of a sacrificed bull. It frequently topped walls or shrines in the palace of Knossos, or was found in sanctuaries and other buildings, and was made of alabaster or other stone. Horns of consecration also appear in artistic depictions.

A term first used by Arthur Evans to describe the symbol, supposedly representing stylized bulls’ horns, which played a major role in Minoan religion. Usually made of alabaster or other stone, horns of consecration are found in sanctuaries and other buildings; they also appear in artistic depictions.