A lesson of history in a blue and gold background, that’s what our tour in the archeological sites is! Everyone is breathless and astonished at the sight of the most important civilization of humanity, the Minoan civilization (2800 - 1150). Some time after 3000 B.B. the New-Stone-Age is followed by the Bronze Age, or the ‘Minoan Era’’, as the archeologist A. EVANS called it. This era covers the period up to 1100 B.C. During those times, civilization enters a new stage, developing at more rapid; this is a period of glory. A different civilization is born, setting the framework for a new way of living. Besides, it establishes new views about art and aesthetics. Nowadays, the Minoan civilization is deemed as the distant ancestor of the Modern European civilization that developed around Knossos. Altars, yards, sumptuous halls and frescoes make up an architectural masterpiece, implemented with facilities and plumbing works and sanitation facilities, which were very innovative for that time.

From 2000 to 1700 B.C. the kings assume authority. Around 1900, the majestic palaces in Festos, Knossos and Malia are erected. In the end of the 17th century B.C. the palace of Zakros is erected as well. The painters and potters prove us that art can attain to the ultimate subtleness. Their frescoes bring us very close to the soul of those peaceful, joyful, yet powerful people. They also bring us close to the sea and its treasures. A sudden geological destruction – the eruption of the volcano on Santorini (1450 B.C.) breaks off the flourishing of the Minoan civilization…

1900 is considered a milestone for excavations, when the British archeologist A. Evans, following the steps of Minos Kalokerinos conducts large-scale excavation around Knossos.

The descent of Achaean and Dorian tribes on the island marks a new era: new settlements are established like Lato and Aptera. Lato or Etera becomes the most significant town of Crete (7th century B.C.). After the Roman occupation (69-330 A.D.), Gortys becomes the center of the island. During the Byzantine period, Crete shows off its wealth and might with the unrivaled mosaics of its basilica and the incredible number of churches.

Throughout the island, the visitor has the opportunity to enrich his/her knowledge or experience and come face to face with the wealth of the Cretan civilization…