One of the most important historical civilisations were the Minoans, and the Minoan Palace of Knossos is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece.
Inhabited from the 7th century until its destruction in 1375BC, the palace was the cultural and political centre of the Minoan civilisation and is the oldest known European city.
There are four palaces on Crete and the most important one is Knossos. Standing on Kefalas Hill overlooking the sea, it is a labyrinth of rooms, corridors and stairs. All Minoan palaces were complex constructions with buildings surrounding a central court where religious ceremonies were held.
The Grand Staircase and the Throne room are very impressive with magnificent frescoes. You can view the frescoes, most of which depict nature, the sea with dolphins and everyday life. Unlike other ancient Greek sites, there are no scenes of war. These fascinating frescoes clearly demonstrate the Minoans’ peaceful culture and way of life.
Excavations of the palace started in 1878 and went on until 1931. Artifacts from the excavations are housed in the Archaeological Museum at Heraklion where you can see jewellery, helmets and frescoes. If you like history, this is a site not to be missed when you are visiting Crete.
Free admission days: –
6 March (in memory of Melina Mercouri)
18 April (International Monuments Day)
18 May (International Museums Day)
The last weekend of September annually (European Heritage Days)
28 October
Every first Sunday from November 1st to March 31st
A visit to Knossos is best undertaken in the early morning or just before sunset avoiding the heat of the day and the crowds.
Surrounded by vineyards and fruit trees, Knossos is only 7. 1 kilometres from Heraklion airport and 5.5 kilometres from Heraklion Town. A trip by bus takes around 12 minutes and by car it is 5 minutes.
For more things to see and do in Crete click here.
One of the lesser known regions of Greece, Eastern Macedonia and Thrace has many attractions that make it an appealing destination for a holiday.
