Phaistos Archaeological Site in Heraklion | AllinCrete Travel Guide for Crete

The island of Crete is rich in history and culture, with evidence of ancient civilizations dating back to the Minoan period. One of the most intriguing archaeological sites on the island is the Phaistos or Phaestos (Greek: Φαιστός) Archaeological Site, which is located in the southern part of Crete.

The Phaistos Archaeological Site is a palace complex that was built during the Minoan period, around 1700 BC. It was the second largest palace complex on the island, after the Palace of Knossos. The palace was built on a hill, overlooking the fertile Messara Plain, which was an important agricultural area during the Minoan period.

The palace complex covers an area of around 8,400 square meters and was made up of various buildings, including a central court, a theater, storerooms, workshops, and living quarters for the royal family and their attendants. The palace was built using large blocks of limestone and had a complex drainage system to deal with the heavy rains that are common in the area.

One of the most fascinating features of the Phaistos Archaeological Site is the Phaistos Disc, which was discovered in 1908 in one of the storerooms of the palace complex. The disc is made of clay and has a diameter of around 16 cm. It is covered in symbols that are thought to be a form of writing, although their meaning is still a mystery. The disc is one of the most important archaeological finds from the Minoan period and is on display in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

The site was inhabited until the end of the Minoan period, around 1450 BC, when it was destroyed by fire, possibly as a result of an earthquake or an invasion. The palace was never rebuilt, and the site was abandoned until it was rediscovered in the late 19th century.

Today, visitors to the Phaistos Archaeological Site can explore the ruins of the palace complex and imagine what life was like during the Minoan period. The site is surrounded by stunning views of the Messara Plain and the surrounding mountains, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the history and culture of the Minoans.

Phaistos Archaeological Site is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in ancient history and archaeology. Its well-preserved ruins, stunning location, and mysterious artifacts make it a must-visit site for anyone traveling to Crete.

Telephone: +30 28920 42315
Fax: +30 28920 42315
Email: efahra@culture.gr