Palace of Knossos

Overview

The Palace of Knossos is the largest and most important Minoan archaeological site on Crete, dating back to approximately 1900 BCE. Located 5 km south of Heraklion, it was the ceremonial and political center of the Minoan civilization and is closely linked to the Greek myth of the Labyrinth and the Minotaur. The partially reconstructed ruins, controversially restored by Sir Arthur Evans in the early 20th century, offer a vivid picture of Bronze Age palace life.

Highlights

• Throne Room: The oldest known throne room in Europe, with an alabaster seat and griffin frescoes still in place.
• Grand Staircase: A monumental four-story staircase showcasing advanced Minoan engineering and light-well architecture.
• Bull-Leaping Fresco: One of the most iconic images of the Minoan world, depicting athletes vaulting over a charging bull.

History

The first palace was built around 1900 BCE and destroyed by an earthquake circa 1700 BCE. A grander second palace rose on the same site and flourished until approximately 1450 BCE, when it was destroyed — likely by the eruption of Thera (Santorini) and subsequent Mycenaean invasion. Sir Arthur Evans excavated and partially reconstructed the site between 1900 and 1931.

Visitor Tips

• Best time: Arrive at opening (08:00) to avoid cruise-ship crowds, especially in summer.
• Guided tour: Highly recommended — the ruins are complex and benefit from expert narration.
• Duration: 2–3 hours.