PALACE OF KNOSSOS

Just a short 5 km drive from Heraklion takes you back in time.

The world-famous Palace of Knossos, which flourished during the Minoan period (2000–1350 BC), was the most important center of Minoan civilization. Its labyrinth-like layout and vast size of around 22,000 sq.m. bring the myth of the Labyrinth to life.

Thanks to the reconstructions by Arthur Evans, the excavator of Knossos, visitors can experience the atmosphere of a Minoan palace as if it were still alive. Explore the Throne Room, the Processional Corridor decorated with frescoes—most famously the “Prince of the Lilies”—the Hall of the Double Axes, and the Queen’s apartments featuring the Dolphin fresco. You can also discover the Small Palace (15th century BC), the Royal Villa (14th century BC), the House of the Frescoes, and the Villa of Dionysus.