KNOSSOS

 

 

TOUR OVERVIEW:

Your morning drive will take you east driving past Rethymnon the capital of the Prefecture of the same name built between the two other large cities of Crete, Heraklion at east and Chania at west. It lies along the north coast, having to the east one of the largest sandy beaches in Crete and to the west a rocky coastline that ends up to another large beach.

Driving continue to Heraklion capital of Crete and one of the Mediterranean’s most fascinating and vibrant cities situated on the north of the island, to arrive at Knossos Palace which was the heart of a marvelous civilization that flourished approximately four thousand years ago then disappeared mysteriously fifteen hundred years before the dawn of the Christian era.

The ruins of the capital of the Minoan kingdom were discovered in 1899 and it was Sir Arthur Evans with his personal conviction, enthusiasm and skill that opened up the lost world with his excavations. The palace is a labyrinthine complex built around a central court and surrounded by the homes of the officials and priests, the Little Palace, and the homes of the ordinary people. This multi- storied construction covered an area of 22,000 square meters. See the royal quarters the Throne room with the oldest European throne and the Queen's Chambers where dolphins swim across the walls.

After exploring the labyrinth of corridors and rooms of the Palace, you will travel into central Heraklion for a walk around its historian center and then visit the Archaeological Museum. The most magnificent collection of Minoan art and culture in the world is housed in this museum with an exhibition of artifacts, covering a period of 5.000 years.

At the end of the museum tour you will go to the old town where lunch will be served at a traditional restaurant where you will taste the famous Cretan cuisine at its best.

Important Notes:

• This excursion will operate by coach and on foot.
• Note that all minors (those under 18) must be accompanied by an adult on shore excursions.
• The tour of the archaeological site involves a substantial amount of walking on uneven pathways and stair climbing at Knossos, therefore passengers with physical limitations should take this into consideration when booking.
• The drive to Heraklion town is approximately 3 hours each way.
• Guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses and hats.
• Lunch will be served at a traditional restaurant in Heraklion.
• Rest room facilities at Knossos, the museum and the restaurant.