Ancient Greece Knossos, The Palace of Minos (MINOAN, 1800-1300 BC)
The Palace of Knossos was built on the island of Crete during the Neolithic period (6,000/7,000 BC). It was the capital of Minoan Crete and served as a settlement. At its height shortly after 1700 BC, the palace and surrounding city had a population of 100,000 people. The palace was abandoned between 1,380–1,100 BC for some unknown reason.
Mythologically in Crete was extremely important. The Palace of Knossos is believed to be associated with the Greek mythological labyrinth. The first myth tells of the palace. It was specially made for King Minos. The palace was said to be so complex that no one would ever be able to escape or find an exit.
Read the second myth here.
Architectural Model of Knossos, The Palace of Minos in Crete
The "Throne Room"
Lightwell and corridor in Palace
(columns and shield paintings restored)
The "Horns of Consecration" (restored)
Click the images to go to the individual pages.
