Imagine a time of Minoan kings and queens as you admire the grandiose designs of the Palace of Knossos. According to legend, this ancient building was designed by mythical architect, Daedalus. Join a tour and learn about what happened to this enigmatic designer and then discover the palace’s ancient treasures.
This archaeological site is the largest Bronze Age construct in Greece. Records show this palace was the political and religious hub of the Minoan civilisation until it was ruined around 1375 B.C. After its discovery in 1900, archaeologist Arthur Evans led a painstaking excavation and restoration project. Visit this site today and witness one of Europe’s most important archaeological finds.
Approach the palace via its entrance ramp. Daedalus made certain that the palace is not easily navigated. It’s a good idea to stay with a tour group so you don’t get lost in the network of walkways and halls. The tours also ensure you don’t miss any major sights.
The first area of the palace is the Royal Apartments. Inspect the Queen’s Suite and admire the decorative dolphin fresco on the wall. After seeing how her famous “flushing” toilet worked, climb the grand stairway to the King’s Chamber. This room is also known as the Hall of the Double Axes, owing to the double-axe symbol hewn into the brickwork.
Wander the pretty central courtyard at the top of the stairs and then see the worn stone seat of the ancient Minoan elites in the Throne Room. This open arena was the site of many theatrical performances.
Busy palace artisans, crafting masterpieces for the king, once inhabited the nearby workshops. The large fresco of the Priest King above the south central courtyard is an example of one such artwork. Outside the palace, tread the well-worn path of Royal Road, said to be Europe oldest thoroughfare.
Find Knossos southeast of Heraklion. The 5-kilometre (3-mile) journey can be done by car, or on foot if you’re up for a walk. The site is open daily and charges a small admission fee. Allow at least 2 hours to explore the site.
