Written on : 27 May 2021 By : Laura Wendy Harders López
Minoans, Romans, Greeks, Venetians, and Byzantines-- many civilizations have left their mark on Crete, making this island a paradise for historians and archaeologists alike. If you fancy learning about Crete's most important archaeological sites, we recommend you book a guide who will explain everything associated with these ancient remains and their incredible history.
Read on and find out about Crete's most important historical sites.
Home to the famous Minotaur Labyrinth, Knossos Palace is Crete's most important historical site and a must-visit for history and mythology buffs. It is located only 6 km from Heraklion and receives thousands of visitors from far and wide each year, making it one of the most popular attractions in Greece. The Minoan kings built it around 2,000 BC, succeeding in creating a centre of political, commercial and religious power at Knossos, whose palace bears witness to the glory of Minoan history and culture-- with its largest erected building covering 17,000m2 and housing 1500 rooms.
Among its main highlights, one can find its central courtyard, the dolphin fresco, the storerooms containing the giant vessels, the throne room, the double axe room, the grand staircase, the south gate, the propylon fresco with the charging bull, and the symbol of Knossos and Minoan culture. The palace's murals and sculptures are mainly found in its archaeological museum.
After Knossos, Phaistos Palace is the most important Minoan archaeological site in Crete. It boasts labyrinthian walls and staircases, with hillside courtyards overlooking the southern coast of Crete. The complex was comprised of two palaces, one of whose remains can be seen on-site, whereas the other can be hardly appreciated as it is believed to have been destroyed by a tsunami at the time. With its unique hieroglyphics, the site's most highlighted feature is the engraved clay disc displayed in the Heraklion Museum.
Address: Φαιστού, Ag. Ioannis 702 00
Castello del Molo - Koules Fortress
At the entrance of Heraklion port, stands one of the most important attractions of the city. Constructed between the 9th and 10th century by the Arabs, various civilizations such as the Venetians and the Ottoman Empire took command of this imposing fortress. Today, Castello del Molo has been beautifully restored and is now open to the public-- also running various annual expositions and musical performances. One can stroll along its walls and admire the views over the harbour with its many fishing boats floating over the glistening waters.
Address: Heraklión 712 02
The archaeological site of Agia Triada
Only 4km from Knossos Palace stands the Agia Triada site-- a must-visit during one's historical tour of Crete. Built around 1600 BC, it consists of a small Minoan palace and village that became an influential enclave in the region. Off-the-tourist-radar, one can explore this site in peace away from the large crowds that throng other attractions, and admire the beautiful Agios Georgios chapel, constructed in the Venetian period.
Address: Phaistos 702 00, Grece
Archaeological Site of Itanos
Located 25km east of Sitia, Itanos is an archaeological complex of a classical Minoan town whose splendour lasted until the Byzantine civilization, serving as a commercial and trading point with Egypt and the East. Though open to the public, its excavations are still ongoing, so one cannot expect any facilities or touristic services in the area. If you plan on visiting this site, you can also head over to Itanos Beach, a hidden beach with calm crystal clear waters and creamy sand, ideal for a family picnic or engaging in some water sports.
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