This is the site of a spectacular Minoan Palace not only by its actual physical location but also by its strict planning. The layout of the ruins spreads on a flat area of a steep hill open on three sides above a fertile valley (the Mesara plain) barred by mountains. It is both a natural defense as well as a splendid lookout.
Interestingly enough, it is located in the middle of the island in the south, just as Knossos is on the northern side of Crete.
The site dates back to the Neolithic and early Minoan periods (3,000-2,000 BC). As on many other Cretan sites, the earliest constructions were destroyed on two occasions. The third destruction happened around 1,700 BC. A new palace was then built and was used until 1450 BC.
Phaistos is considered to be the second royal Minoan Palace. It was the home of king Rhadamanthys [Ῥαδάμανθυς], who was considered as a demigod as he was one of the three sons of Zeus and Europa. His other brothers were Minos (King of Knossos ) and Sarpedon (a Trojan War hero).
This archaeologic site is where the famed Phaistos Disk was found. It is now on display at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.
Part of the mystery surrounding this small clay disk has been solved lately: Huffpost
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The Upper Court.
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| Jars |
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| The East Wing Complex |
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| The Central Court |
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Pithois
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| The Central Court |
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| Round container |
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| Stairs to the Propylaea |
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| More stairs |
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| The Propylaea |
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| Valley view from Phaistos |
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