Taxi from Chania Airport to Knossos

The famous archaeological site of Knossos. This Bronze Age site, located on the outskirts of Heraklion, is a major center of the Minoan civilization and is renowned for its connection to the Greek myth of Theseus and the minotaur.

Knossos is dominated by the impressive Palace of Minos, which served as a combination religious and administrative center rather than a royal residence. The earliest parts of the palace were built around 1900 BC and it was continually renovated and expanded over the next five centuries until its eventual destruction in 1350 BC.

The site was first excavated in 1877 by Minos Kalokairinos, but it wasn’t until 1900 when Arthur Evans conducted extensive excavations that many famous artifacts were unearthed, including the Bull-Leaping Fresco, snake goddess figurines, and Linear B tablets. While Evans is often credited for discovering the Minoan Civilization, his work is controversial due to his reconstructions of the site which have been deemed inaccurate.

The palace complex at Knossos has evolved over several centuries, with the latest features being the most dominant. However, it is important to note that the site has been reconstructed using modern materials in an effort to preserve it from decay and extreme weather conditions. Some argue that the palace is not an accurate representation of its original form, while others believe that it is a good facsimile based on archaeological evidence.

Knossos is located on a raised central court on the top of Kephala Hill, with the Kairatos River to the south and the sea to the north. The site also includes other structures such as the Royal Villa, Little Palace, and various Minoan houses. The Minoan Road, which connected the port to the palace complex, can still be seen today. Visitors can also visit the nearby Caravanserai and Customs House.

For those planning to visit Knossos, it is important to note that the site and its surrounding areas have been continuously inhabited throughout history, with modern settlements and roads built over ancient structures. The best way to reach Knossos is by car, with Chania Airport being approximately 149 km away and a 2 hour and 11-minute drive. To make the journey more convenient, visitors can book a taxi through our site, MyCreteTaxi.

It is a must-visit destination for those interested in ancient civilizations and Greek mythology, and with its fascinating ruins and artifacts, it is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor.