Archaeological Sites in Crete
Discover the most important historical sites in Crete and
delve into the island's rich history that dates back to ancient times!
Unveil the myths of the past by visiting the best ruins in Crete
Like most of Greece, Crete boasts a long history that is evident in the plethora of the ancient as well as more recent sites that can be found on the island. If you are a culture lover who lives and breathes exploring exciting places, visiting the archaeological sites in Crete is one of the best things to do during your vacation.
Knossos Palace
Located close to Heraklion, the archaeological site of Knossos is the most important of all Cretan ruins, as it constituted the centre of the flourishing Minoan civilisation. Surrounded by many legends, such as Daedalus and Icarus and the Minotaur with the labyrinth, Knossos Palace is a historical treasure that is worth visiting.
Travel back in time and immerse yourself in the Minoan culture as you wander the magnificent palace. The excavations brought to light its upscale infrastructure, which features ample rooms, terraces with vibrant frescoes, and a complex drainage system.
Travel back in time and immerse yourself in the Minoan culture as you wander the magnificent palace. The excavations brought to light its upscale infrastructure, which features ample rooms, terraces with vibrant frescoes, and a complex drainage system.
Phaistos
Phaistos was yet another thriving and influential centre of the Minoan civilisation that stood out for its strategic position. According to mythology, it was the residence of king Minos΄ mythical brother, making for one of the most sumptuous Minoan palaces.
Feel part of the ancient history as the Minoan splendour lies all its glory in front of you. Witness the awe-inspiring findings and palace spaces, including the part where the legendary Phaistos disc was found, and create priceless memories.
Feel part of the ancient history as the Minoan splendour lies all its glory in front of you. Witness the awe-inspiring findings and palace spaces, including the part where the legendary Phaistos disc was found, and create priceless memories.
Malia archaeological site
Named after the village of Malia that resides 3 km east, Malia archaeological site was a significant Minoan city that was first brought to light in 1915. Based on archaeological research, the Malia palace was destroyed in 1450 B.C., as were most of the Minoan palaces.
During your visit, you can stroll through the exquisite remnants of a formerly glorious era filled with luxury and elegance. A testament to this is the monuments exhibited on the 7,500 sq.m site, making it easier to imagine what the palace looked like.
During your visit, you can stroll through the exquisite remnants of a formerly glorious era filled with luxury and elegance. A testament to this is the monuments exhibited on the 7,500 sq.m site, making it easier to imagine what the palace looked like.
Gortyna
The archaeological site of Gortyna revolves around the ruins of a powerhouse ancient city that reached its peak during the Roman era. Located on the south coast of Crete, it is a site you should not miss out on when organising your Crete excursions and itinerary.
Wander around and have a look at the city's old grandeur by visiting its well-preserved ruins. Peruse some of its most significant monuments, which include the Roman theatre, the ruins of Saint Titus church, and the “Great Inscription” with the Code of Law of Gortys.
Wander around and have a look at the city's old grandeur by visiting its well-preserved ruins. Peruse some of its most significant monuments, which include the Roman theatre, the ruins of Saint Titus church, and the “Great Inscription” with the Code of Law of Gortys.
Spinalonga island
Not all archaeological sites in Crete have to do with ancient times. Spinalonga island is an example of modern history forming and coming alive right in front of your eyes. Although it is home to a glorious Venetian fortress, it is mainly known as a quarantine island for the lepers.
Access Spinalonga by boat from various tourist cities of the island, and once you get there, tour the whole island along the fortification walls. Climb to the top to relish incredible views and finish your day trip with a cold coffee at the local cafe.
Access Spinalonga by boat from various tourist cities of the island, and once you get there, tour the whole island along the fortification walls. Climb to the top to relish incredible views and finish your day trip with a cold coffee at the local cafe.
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