Central Court


The Central Court is the main court, measuring an impressive 48m long and 22m wide. On its western side archaeologists discovered one of the Kernos Stones, a disc with 24 holes around its edge, possibly used for religious purposes.


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1. Grand Staircase

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This was the main staircase that led to the 'piano nobile', where important rooms such as reception areas were located.

2. Altar Pit

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Believed to be an altar where animals were sacrificed (many bone remains were found here).

3. Loggia

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The loggia was most probably used for ceremonial purposes.

4. East Magazines

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The east magazines (storerooms) once contained stacks of giant pithoi (pots) containing liquids and staples.

5. Hypostyle Hall

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The hall was a large room with six pillars, presumably supporting a second floor and/or roof. Many decorated ceramics were found here, leading…

6. Pillar Crypt

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Located behind a stone-paved vestibule within the west wing of the palace, the pillar crypt is believed to have harboured the most important rooms.

8. Kernos Stone

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This disc with 34 impressions around its edge is on the western side of the Palace of Malia's Central Court. Archaeologists believe it probably had a…