Palace of Knossos
Knossos
Crete’s most famous historical attraction is the Palace of Knossos, the grand capital of Minoan Crete, located 5km south of the city of Iraklio. The…
Knossos
Crete’s must-see historical attraction is the Palace of Knossos, 5km south of Iraklio, and the capital of Minoan Crete. Combining a visit here with a spin around Iraklio's excellent Archaeological Museum is highly recommended.
Attractions
Must-see attractions for your itinerary
Throne Room
Knossos
Behind an antechamber, this beautifully proportioned room is separated by a pillar from a sunken basin that may have been used for purification rituals…
Queen’s Megaron
Knossos
Archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans believed that this pretty space in the residential eastern wing, with its painted pillars and playful dolphin fresco on the…
Central Court
Knossos
At the heart of the palace, the Central Court was hemmed in by high walls during Minoan times. Rooms facing the western side of the courtyard had official…
Magazine of the Giant Pithoi
Knossos
Covered storerooms in the east wing hold giant clay jars decorated with ornamental relief that once held oil, wine and other staples. They were…
Drainage System
Knossos
Remnants of a drainage channel and underground clay pipes show that the Minoans had developed a sophisticated water-supply and sewage system.
Charging Bull Fresco
Knossos
This famous fresco adorns Sir Arthur Evans’ restored elevated, colonnaded west bastion of the north entrance of the palace.
Guidebooks
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Get to the heart of Knossos with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.