Linear A was the primary script used in palace and religious writings of the Minoan civilization. It was discovered by archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans. It was succeeded by Linear B, which was used by the Mycenaeans to write an early form of Greek. No texts in Linear A have been deciphered.

Why can't we decipher Linear A?

Deciphering Linear B was a monumental achievement, but the challenge of Linear A is even more difficult. That's partly because the language behind the script doesn't appear to be like any other language. “It seems to be a wholly unknown indigenous language,” says Davis.

Who is credited for translating Linear A?

Linear A, which was used by the Minoans during the Bronze Age, exists on at least 1,400 known inscriptions made on clay tablets. The language has baffled the world's top archaeologists and linguistic experts for many years. A translation of a Linear B tablet by Dr. Ester Salgarella.