Knossos

Renowned as Europe's oldest city, Knossos is located near Heraklion. It is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site with impressive ruins, colorful frescoes, and a glimpse into the Minoan civilization that flourished here over 3,500 years ago. It is easily accessible through public buses that leave every 15 minutes from Old Town Heraklion during the summer. Free parking service is also available.

This legendary palace was the center of the Minoan civilization and is linked to intriguing myths like the labyrinth of the Minotaur and the story of Daedalus and Icarus. The west wing occupied rooms for administrative and religious activities, including the Tripartite Shrine, the Sacred Repositories, and the Pillar Crypts. The Throne Room is the most amazing structure amongst them, with its lustral basin and the gypsum throne abounded by benches. The most important areas in the south wing are the Corridor of the Procession, South Propylon, and the South Entrance, with the painting of the Prince of the Lilies. From the North Entrance, a road led to the harbour of Knossos. The North Entrance is flanked by elevated stoas, the one at the west being decorated with the Bull Hunt painting. The east wing contained the residential quarters, the most important being the Hall of the Double Axes and the Queen's Hall.