Archaeological Site Of Knossos

Archaeological Site Of Knossos

The Palace of Knossos was the center of the Minoan civilization, as it was the largest palace of all the Minoan centers. It is estimated to be first inhabited during the Neolithic period and to be built around 1900 B.C. on the ruins of the Neolithic settlement. In the site of Knossos, tourists can visit the Great Palace, the Little Palace, the Royal Villa, the House of the High Priest, the Caravan Serai and the Royal Temple Tomb-Sanctuary.

Where Knossos located?

Knossos, the ancient capital of Minoan Crete, is located on the island of Crete in present-day Greece. Situated approximately 5 kilometers southeast of the modern city of Heraklion, Knossos was a prominent center of the Minoan civilization. The location of Knossos is strategically significant, as it lies in the fertile Kairatos Valley, surrounded by hills and mountains. This advantageous position allowed the Minoans to control both agricultural land and important trade routes, facilitating their economic prosperity and cultural influence. The site of Knossos is known for its palace complex, which was the political, religious, and economic hub of the Minoan civilization. The palace, with its intricate architecture, frescoes, and advanced plumbing systems, reflects the sophistication and advanced level of organization achieved by the Minoans. Today, Knossos is a popular archaeological site and a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of ancient Crete. Its location in a picturesque setting, amidst olive groves and vineyards, makes it a notable destination for tourists and history enthusiasts alike. In conclusion, the location of Knossos on the island of Crete played a crucial role in the prominence and influence of the Minoan civilization, and its historical significance continues to attract visitors from around the world.

What you need to know before visit Knossos

What are the important historical and cultural aspects of Knossos?

Knossos is an important archaeological site located on the island of Crete in Greece. It was the center of the Minoan civilization, one of the earliest advanced civilizations in Europe, and is considered to be one of the most important archaeological sites in the region. Historically, Knossos is best known for being the administrative and political center of the Minoan civilization, which flourished from around 3000 BCE to 1100 BCE. The palace complex at Knossos was originally discovered and excavated by British archaeologist Arthur Evans in the early 20th century, and it has provided historians and archaeologists with significant insights into the culture, technology, and society of the Minoans. Culturally, Knossos is known for its impressive architecture, including its large palace complex which is believed to have been the seat of power for the Minoan rulers. The site also features unique frescoes, including the famous "Prince of the Lilies" fresco, which provide valuable information about Minoan art and culture. The bull-leaping fresco, the double axes and the maze-like layout of the palace are some of the iconic features of Knossos. The Minoan civilization also had a unique writing system, known as Linear A, which has not yet been deciphered. Knossos and the Minoan culture also had strong connections with other ancient civilizations, such as Egypt and the ancient Near East. Overall, Knossos is significant historically and culturally for its association with the Minoan civilization, and its archaeological remains provide valuable insights into the early history of Europe and the development of ancient civilizations.