Crete, Greece - Heraklion & Ancient Knossos
Heraklion is the capital of Crete - the largest of the Greek islands, and the birthplace of Zeus - king of the ancient gods. Visit the famous Minoan Palace of Knossos – discovered by archeologist Sir Arthur Evans, and experience this great culture and the “labyrinth” of Theseus and the Minotaur legend.
(HER-01) The Palace of Knossos
By air-conditioned motor coach / foot
Duration: 3 hours, minimum 20 participants
Enjoy a drive from the Venetian lion-guarded port of Heraklion town to Knossos (approximately 30 minutes), once the capital city of the ancient Minoan civilization, and thought to be the basis for the original Labyrinth housing the mythological Minotaur.
Follow your guide in order to visit a portion of the excavated and partially reconstructed Palace of King Minos, and the surrounding area.
The Palace houses the Hall of the Royal Guard, decorated with frescoes and shields, the Hall of the Double Axes, the King's Chamber - with the alabaster throne amidst paintings of griffins and lilies, and the Queen's Apartment adorned with murals of dolphins and spirals, a reminder of the legend of the Labyrinth. Also view the beautiful courtyards & shrines.
Return to your motor coach and drive to the city of Heraklion where you will have free time to browse for souvenirs of this unique island.
Afterwards, return to the port by your motor coach in time for ship's departure.
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