KNOSSOS PALACE – GREEK MYTHOLOGY

Knossos, a complex of more than 1500 interlocking rooms, was an astonishing palace, built for a mighty king of the Bronze Age. As you wander through the labyrinthine ruins, you will have the chance to see the original throne of "Minos", the mystifying sanctuaries, the luxurious domestic quarters of the royal family, the once upon a time bursting with Crete’s treasures pantries and the astonishing water-management systems!

Knossos is considered Europe’s oldest city. The first palace of Knossos was erected soon after 2000 BC. In 1700 BC, a catastrophic earthquake destroyed the Palace. A new palace was then immediately built, the most significant and monumental of all and for more than 300 years it represented the pre-eminent center of power in Bronze Age Crete. The new palace was an imposing complex with important architectural innovations, splendid frescoes adorning the walls, hundreds of rooms distributed in four stories, impressive storage areas, specialized workshops and spacious courts hosting ceremonies and feasts.

During the last decades of the 14th century BC, a series of earthquakes led however to the final destruction of the palace.

Highlights

• Join our small group (up to 16 pax) Walking tour at Knossos palace with a Licensed Tourist Guide.
• Skip the ticket line to enter Knossos Palace.
• Transfer to the palace of Knossos for easy access.
• Explore the ancient palace, step into the royal residence and see the Minoan king's throne.
• Be amazed by the House of the Frescoes and its colorful wall paintings.
• Learn about the history of the Minoan Civilization, probably the oldest one on the European continent.
• Use the combine ticket (value for money) to enter the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion when you go to Heraklion city later.