Plizio Visual Lab
Knossos
Knossos is the primary archaeological site on Crete, once the ceremonial and political heart of the Minoan civilization during the Bronze Age. The first palace was constructed around 1900 BC, and its remains were unearthed by Sir Arthur Evans in the early 20th century. Evans' controversial partial restoration allows visitors to visualize the palace's former grandeur, notably through lively frescoes like the 'Bull-Leaping' and the 'Prince of the Lilies.' The complex features the Throne Room, royal quarters, and an incredibly advanced drainage system for its time. Mythology identifies this site as the home of King Minos and the Labyrinth that housed the Minotaur. Located just 5 km south of Heraklion, it is best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to escape the peak sun and large tour groups.
- Location: Greece
- Top sights: Tekes Khorasanle · Inadiye fortress · Fortetsa Tomb Site
- Nearby: Karteros (5 km)
- Population: ~1.012 (2012)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 13 | 13 | 14 | 16 | 20 | 24 | 26 | 26 | 24 | 21 | 18 | 15 |
| Rain mm | 88 | 75 | 42 | 23 | 15 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 18 | 46 | 59 | 86 |
Geography
Facts
- Largest Minoan palace
- Excavated by Arthur Evans
- Home of the Minotaur myth
- Over 3500 years old
- Famous fresco reproductions
- Ancient drainage system
- Throne Room of King Minos
- UNESCO tentative list
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Knossos (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Knossos take?
Should I buy Knossos tickets in advance?
Is the Knossos site wheelchair accessible?
When is the best time of day to visit?
Is photography allowed in Knossos?
Knossos: where is it located?
Knossos: what is there to see?
Knossos: when is the best time to visit?
Knossos: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
