I’m sure you’re all familiar with the word labyrinth, aren’t you? You might as well have heard about the myth of Minotaur, the half bull half human creature which was killed by Theseus with the help of Ariadne. Yes I know, lots of characters in just one sentence, but you can read the (quick) story over at Wikipedia. Well, today I’m taking you to the actual place where this myth takes place: the city and palace of Knossos.
The archaeological site
The city and palace of Knossos date from 1700BC. The site was discovered in late 19th century by Minos Kalokairinos and excavations started in 1900 by British archaeologist Arthur Evans. The excavations uncovered the palace, warehouses, private houses and a very sophisticated sewage system. Many of the buildings featured elaborate murals, which are now housed in the archaeological museum of Heraklion. One thing you should keep in mind is that a large part of the palace is re-constructed according to Evans perception based on writings and descriptions of the palace.
Notable decorative details found throughout the palace, are the double axe (labrys), bull horns, people, mythological creatures, real animals, vegetation, and marine life. I should note that the word labyrinth originates from the word labrys and it’s no wonder that it ended up meaning a maze, because this palace is a maze indeed!
A few places to check out in the palace are the Throne room (pictured above) and the Queen’s quarters. The former is a room with painted walls in beige and red colors and features mythical creatures called griffins as well as an alabaster throne. The Queen’s quarters have dolphins painted on the walls and had a bathtub, which was unique for the time.
Practical tips and information
The archaeological site of Knossos is open year round, apart from certain holidays. It gets the most visitors during summertime, as people combine their vacations with sightseeing (I can’t blame them, this place is unique). During summertime the site is open from 8am until 7pm. Here you can find more information about your visit. It includes information about visiting hours, ticket prices and days of free entrance.
Upon entering the site you will find a kiosk with guides (for free), which tour the site and explain the history of the place. There is a tour in English for sure, but I’m sure there are other languages available as well. I didn’t join a tour during my visit. It comes very handy though, because this place is a maze. You will learn a lot about Knossos from the guide. There are information signs throughout the site though if you opt not to take a guide.
Based on my personal experience I strongly advise you to visit either early in the morning or after 5pm. It is very hot during summertime and the site has a few areas of shade. I’ve written a couple of tips on what to wear when visiting Knossos as well! If you plan to visit the Archaeological museum of Heraklion, do buy the combined ticket. All the frescoes found in Knossos are exhibited in the museum and the ones you see in Knossos are reconstructions.
Have you visited Knossos?
I'm Anna and this is my lifestyle and travel blog! 
Oh wow, visiting somewhere so ancient must have been a really wonderful experience. And, I can’t believe how blue that sky is – pure bliss!
there are older settlements in Greece, but Knossos is unique thanks to the myths associated with it (though most of the palace and the city are restored as they were a pile of stones when it was excavated. As for the sky, what can I say…it is very blue indeed (especially in summertime).
Το ξέρω ότι επαναλαμβάνομαι, αλλά οι φωτογραφίες σου είναι εκπληκτικές! Πάντα!
Thank you!!
Wow, very nice pictures and the city as well. This can transfer you many years back in time, up to the Ancient Times. 🙂 But is there any sight built in some Middle Ages as well? 1500-1800? Thanks.
Greece has such a rich history so we do have sites from the Middle Ages as well. My next travel post will be about Monemvasia which has a long history but was particularly active in the 13th and 14th centuries AD. From 1453 up to 1821 Greece was a part of the Ottoman Empire, so there are not many buildings from this period save for some Mosques here and there.
Would love to visit it especially since I studied History:)
It would be perfect for you! Greece has lots of history and therefore sites of historical significance.
Oh wow, what an interesting place to get to visit. I love all the history in Europe. It makes the US and Australia look so young by comparison.
What a beautiful place! I love that it is a maze and so ideal to get lost and explore especially with kids in tow. We’d love to visit this someday. It’s such a perfect blend of history and mythology. Great photos!