THE PALACE OF KNOSSOS

Knossos is the most important centre of the Minoan Civilization. The first palace complex of Knossos is believed to have been built in the 19th century BC. After its destruction, a new palace was built and Knossos flourished until approximately 1450 BC. The ruins at Knossos were discovered in 1878 by Minos Kalokairinos, a Cretan merchant and antiquarian.

The palace of Knossos has been suggested as the source of the myth of the Labyrinth, an elaborate mazelike structure constructed for King Minos of Crete, and designed by the legendary artificer Daedalus to hold the Minotaur, a creature that was half man and half bull and was eventually killed by the Athenian hero Theseus.

The centerpiece of the Minoan palace was the so-called Throne Room. This chamber has an alabaster seat identified by Evans as a "throne" built into the north wall. On three sides of the room are gypsum benches.

Around the central courtyard you’ll see residences, store rooms, rooms for religious and public ceremonies. During your visit you will admire the impressing architectural innovations of the minoan civilization such as baths, sewer networks, water supply systems etc.