The reconstruction of the famous red columns at the palace of Knossos. It was the largest of the Minoan palaces on Crete covering a total of five acres.
The palace was the centre of life for the Minoans with such a complex structure that they resembled a labyrinth. There were 16 storage rooms where oil, wool, wine and grain. On the ground floor was a ritual cult centre and a grand staircase led to a second floor.
The most captivating room of the palace was the throne room which has has an alabaster seat identified as a "throne" built into the north wall. On three sides of the room are gypsum benches. A sort of tub area is opposite the throne, behind the benches, termed a lustral basin and it is decorated with some beaufitul frescoes such as the Griffin fresco.
The exact function of the palace is unclear and archaeologists have imposed that the administrative center, a religious center or both. The archaeological site of Knossos was excavated from 1900 by Arthur Evans and his team.
The Palace of Knossos, located on the island of Crete, is one of the most significant and famous archaeological sites in Greece. It was the ceremonial and political center of the Minoan civilization and culture, which thrived from approximately 2000 to 1400 BCE. Here are some key points about the Palace of Knossos:
1. **Historical Significance**: The palace is considered Europe's oldest city, and its history is deeply intertwined with the myths of King Minos, the Minotaur, and the labyrinth.
2. **Architecture**: The complex covers about 20,000 square meters and includes several floors with numerous rooms, including the Throne Room, residential quarters, workshops, storerooms, and religious areas. Its design is considered advanced for its time, featuring sophisticated plumbing and drainage systems.
3. **Discovery**: The site was excavated by British archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans in the early 20th century. His reconstruction of parts of the palace has been both praised for bringing the site to life and criticized for being speculative.
4. **Art and Frescoes**: The palace is renowned for its vibrant frescoes depicting scenes of Minoan life, nature, and religious rituals. These artworks provide valuable insights into the culture and daily activities of the Minoans.
5. **Cultural Impact**: The Palace of Knossos has significantly contributed to our understanding of the Minoan civilization, which is considered one of the earliest advanced civilizations in Europe. The site has also influenced Greek mythology and subsequent cultural narratives.
Today, the Palace of Knossos is a major tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into the sophisticated world of the ancient Minoans.
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