MINOAN SITE OF THE PALACE OF ZAKROS
An archaeological site with an ancient palace in Zakros.
The site was excavated in the 1960s by Greek archaeologists. The knowledge accumulated over almost a century of Minoan history has provided valuable information about the layout of the buildings. Part of the site is currently under water: the end of the island has been tilted since Minoan times. Like most Cretan palaces, the Zakros Palace was originally built around 1900 BC. What you are discovering today dates from 1600 BC. The area of the site is about 10,000 square meters. It was the residence of the royal family but also the administrative and religious centre for the entire region. A very large number of objects have been discovered here (about 10,000) which are mainly in the museums of Heraklion and Sitia. In particular an intact Minoan religious treasure, including ritual objects and, at the bottom of a well, bowls containing intact olives, as if they had been freshly picked, dating back 3,500 years! Many clay tablets not yet deciphered, as well as a stone bull's head and a magnificent rock crystal vase (Heraklion Museum). From Zakros, local products (timber and handicrafts) were exported to Egypt and the Middle East while semi-precious stones, precious metals and ivory were imported. Like all Cretan sites, life stopped at Zakros in 1450 BC.
Book the Best Activities with Get Your Guide
Members' reviews on MINOAN SITE OF THE PALACE OF ZAKROS
