Zakros Archaeological Site in Lasithi - AllinCrete Travel Guide for Crete

Kato Zakros Minoan Archaeological Site Lasithi Crete - Copyright Allincrete.com

Crete, the largest island in Greece, is an ideal destination for history buffs and archeology enthusiasts. The island is home to several ancient sites that offer a glimpse into the Minoan civilization, which thrived over 3,500 years ago. One of the most intriguing sites on the island is the Zakros Archaeological Site, located on the eastern coast of Crete.

The Zakros Archaeological Site is located near the village of Kato Zakros, on the eastern coast of Crete. The site is a complex of ruins that covers an area of approximately 10,000 square meters. The ruins include a palace, a settlement, a cemetery, and a network of roads that connected Zakros to other parts of Crete. The palace at Zakros is the smallest of the Minoan palaces, and it was likely used as a regional administrative center.

The Zakros palace was built during the Late Minoan period, around 1600-1450 BCE. The palace was surrounded by a large courtyard and several smaller buildings. The palace had four wings that contained numerous rooms, including storerooms, workshops, living quarters, and ceremonial halls. The palace also had a central court that was used for public gatherings and religious ceremonies. The palace was decorated with elaborate frescoes that depicted scenes from Minoan life, including bull-leaping, hunting, and fishing.

The settlement at Zakros was located outside the palace walls, and it consisted of a series of houses, workshops, and storage buildings. The settlement was likely home to the workers who served the palace, including craftsmen, farmers, and soldiers. The cemetery at Zakros is located on a hill above the palace, and it contains over 200 tombs that date back to the Late Minoan period. The tombs were built using the tholos style, which is characterized by a circular burial chamber with a domed roof.

One of the most interesting features of the Zakros Archaeological Site is the network of roads that connected the site to other parts of Crete. The roads were built using a technique called “paved causeways,” which involved laying flat stones over a compacted earth base. The roads were wide enough for carts to pass, and they were likely used for trade and military purposes.

Today, the Zakros Archaeological Site is open to visitors, and it offers a fascinating insight into the Minoan civilization. Visitors can explore the ruins of the palace, settlement, and cemetery, and admire the impressive frescoes that adorn the palace walls. The site is also surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including rugged mountains, lush forests, and stunning beaches.

Zakros Archaeological Site is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the Minoan civilization or ancient history. The site offers a fascinating insight into the daily life and culture of the Minoans, and it is a testament to their remarkable achievements. A visit to the Zakros Archaeological Site is sure to be a memorable experience that will leave visitors with a greater appreciation of the ancient world.