Heraklion: Knossos Palace Guided Tour Half Day

Exploring the legendary Knossos Palace is a must-do experience for history enthusiasts visiting Heraklion. This guided tour provides an immersive look into the architectural marvels and cultural legacy of the Minoan civilization. Delving into the palace’s intricate frescoes, advanced drainage systems, and the myths surrounding King Minos, the tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the mysteries that have captivated scholars for generations. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious explorer, this half-day adventure promises to transport you back in time and leave you eager to discover more.

Key Points

• Guided tour of Knossos Palace, the most important Minoan civilization palace, lasting approximately 3 hours.
• Tour available in English, Italian, and Spanish, priced from $91.75 per person.
• Explore Knossos Palace’s advanced architectural features, including sections up to 5 stories high and sophisticated ventilation and drainage systems.
• Discover the palace’s connection to various Minoan and Greek myths, such as the Minotaur and the story of Daedalus and Icarus.
• Tour includes air-conditioned motorcoach, professional guide, entrance fees, and gratuities, with flexible cancellation policy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The guided tour of Knossos Palace in Heraklion lasts approximately 3 hours and is available in English, Italian, and Spanish.

Priced from $91.75 per person, the tour starts across from the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, in front of Hari’s Creperie.

Participants will explore the most important palace of the Minoan civilization, built between 1700 and 1400 BC. With advanced architectural techniques, the palace once stood up to 5 stories high.

Tour highlights include the theater, storerooms, and various Neolithic remains dating back to 7000 BC found throughout the site.

Historical Significance of Knossos Palace

Knossos Palace holds immense historical significance as the most important palace of the Minoan civilization, which flourished from 1700 to 1400 BC.

The palace boasts advanced architectural techniques, with sections standing up to 5 stories high. Its cultural importance is profound, as it was the seat of the legendary King Minos and linked to various myths and legends.

The excavation history is equally fascinating – discovered in 1878 by Minos Kalokairinos, the site was extensively excavated by Sir Arthur Evans from 1900 for 35 years, uncovering a wealth of artifacts and Neolithic remains dating back to 7000 BC.

Architectural Marvels of Knossos Palace

The palace’s architectural marvels stand as a testament to the Minoan civilization’s advanced construction techniques.

Sections of the sprawling complex stood up to 5 stories high, showcasing the builders’ ingenuity.

Intricate drainage systems, sophisticated ventilation, and multistory staircases highlight the Minoans’ engineering prowess.

Elegant frescoes, ornate columns, and meticulously designed layouts further demonstrate the Minoans’ appreciation for aesthetics and functionality.

The sheer scale and complexity of Knossos Palace remain awe-inspiring, providing a glimpse into the grandeur and sophistication of the Minoan world.

Exploring the Cultural Legacy

Although Knossos Palace’s architectural marvels captivate visitors, its cultural legacy runs even deeper.

As the ancient seat of King Minos, Knossos is linked to various myths and legends, including:

1. The Minotaur, a half-man, half-bull creature, which was said to reside in the palace’s labyrinth.

2. The story of Daedalus and Icarus, who constructed wings to escape the labyrinth.

3. The myth of Theseus, who slew the Minotaur with the help of Ariadne.

These enduring tales have cemented Knossos as a hub of Minoan civilization and Greek mythology, adding depth to the site’s historical significance.

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Excavation History and Discoveries

After Minos Kalokairinos first discovered Knossos Palace in 1878, renowned archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans led excavations at the site for over 35 years, beginning in 1900.

Evans uncovered the magnificent scale and sophistication of the Minoan civilization. His team meticulously excavated and restored many sections of the palace, revealing a complex layout of interconnected rooms, artwork, and artifacts.

The excavations led by Sir Arthur Evans unveiled the grandeur and intricacy of the Minoan civilization at Knossos Palace.

Highlights include the elaborately decorated throne room, the central courtyard, and the distinct Minoan architectural features.

These discoveries have provided invaluable insights into the Minoan way of life and cemented Knossos as a symbol of Greece’s ancient cultural heritage.

Navigating the Interconnected Rooms

As visitors explore the expansive Knossos Palace, they’ll find themselves navigating through a labyrinth of over 1,300 interconnected rooms.

The complex layout includes:

1. Impressive storerooms housing large clay containers for storing essential goods like oil, grains, dried fish, beans, and olives.

2. A grand theater, hinting at the cultural and social significance of the palace.

3. Sections that once stood up to 5 stories high, showcasing the advanced architectural techniques of the Minoan civilization.

This intricate network of spaces provides a fascinating glimpse into the sophisticated organization and functionality of the ancient site.

Artifacts and Neolithic Remains

The Knossos Palace boasts a remarkable collection of artifacts that provide invaluable insights into the daily lives and cultural practices of the Minoan civilization.

These include large clay containers used to store essential goods like oil, grains, dried fish, beans, and olives. Interestingly, some of these containers even concealed hidden pockets of gold, hinting at the wealth and sophistication of the Minoans.

The site also features Neolithic remains, with settlements dating back to 7000 BC scattered throughout the island of Crete.

These ancient ruins offer a glimpse into the earliest human habitations in the region.

Booking and Participant Information

Travelers can reserve their spot on the Knossos Palace Tour and pay later, with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Reserve your spot on the Knossos Palace Tour and pay later, with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes:

1. An air-conditioned motorcoach

2. A professional guide

3. VAT, pick-up/drop-off transfer, entrance fees, and gratuities.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes.

Since You Asked

Can We Take Photos Inside Knossos Palace?

Yes, visitors can take photos inside Knossos Palace during the guided tour. However, flash photography may be prohibited in certain areas to preserve the ancient artifacts and structures.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code for the Knossos Palace guided tour, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes. Casual attire is acceptable, but guests should avoid revealing or overly casual outfits.

What Is the Approximate Group Size for the Tour?

The tour’s group size is not explicitly stated, but it’s typically a small group experience. Participants can expect an intimate setting to explore the historical Knossos Palace with their knowledgeable guide.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no mention of an option to extend the tour duration. The tour is advertised as a 3-hour guided experience, though some feedback indicates the actual duration may be around 1.5 hours. Customers should confirm the exact length with the provider.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour provider does not offer any student or senior discounts at this time. However, they recommend contacting them directly to inquire about any special promotions or packages that may be available.

Final Words

The Heraklion: Knossos Palace Guided Tour Half Day offers a captivating exploration of the legendary Minoan civilization. Visitors can explore the architectural marvels, intricate frescoes, and myths surrounding the palace, all while enjoying the comfort of an air-conditioned motorcoach. With flexible reservations, this tour provides a memorable journey through the rich history of Knossos Palace, the legendary seat of King Minos.

You can check availability for your dates here: