Knossos Palace Heraklion
The Knossos Palace is an ancient archaeological site and one of the most important attractions in Crete, located just south of the city of Heraklion (Iraklio) on the island of Crete. It was the main palace of the Minoan civilization, which was the earliest civilization in Europe.
The palace was built around 2000 BC and it was the administrative and cultural center of the Minoan civilization. The palace is known for its impressive architecture and decoration, including colorful frescoes and intricate sculptures.
The Knossos Palace was rediscovered in the early 20th century by British archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans, who undertook extensive excavations of the site. Today, the palace is open to the public, and visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the history of the Minoan civilization.
The palace is spread over several acres, and visitors can see the remains of the throne room, the central courtyard, and the various storage rooms, workshops, and living quarters of the palace’s inhabitants. Visitors can also see the remnants of the palace’s plumbing system, which was an impressive feat of engineering for its time.
In addition to the palace ruins, visitors can explore the nearby museum, which houses many of the artifacts recovered from the site, including pottery, figurines, and jewelry. The museum also contains a reconstruction of the palace’s famous frescoes, which offer a glimpse into the Minoan civilization’s art and culture.
Overall, the Knossos Palace is a fascinating and important archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the ancient history of Crete and the Minoan civilization. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture.