Knossos & Heraklion City

This tour visits the amazing Knossos archaeological site, proving the existence of the Minoan civilization. The Palace of Knossos was the largest and most spectacular of Minoan palaces. It was the court of the legendary King Minos, father of the mythological Minotaur, half-bull, half-man. The original palace was built around 2,000 B.C., and after being destroyed by an earthquake, was replaced with a more complex one, which strongly resembled a labyrinth. Your guided tour will take you through the marvelous ruins of the ancient complex, restored by Sir Arthur Evans. His work has been criticized by some for its modernity, but it does help you visualize the palace as it was, when it served as the administrative center for the region. There will be over an hour of free time for you to stroll at leisure in the town of Heraklion. Perhaps visit the Fountain of Morosini near the colorful fruit and vegetable market, or shop for some Cretan souvenirs.