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On Crete, the largest of the Greek islands -- and perhaps the one with the most rugged beauty -- the modern-day capital is Heraklion. However, it’s the ancient capital of Knossos that is the headliner here in archaeological terms.

Knossos, just down the seashore from Heraklion, was the capital of the Minoan civilization, one of the most ancient of Greek societies. The remains of Knossos have been painstakingly excavated, including the Palace of King Minos, where the beastly Minotaur was said to live in a labyrinth and devour human sacrifices. No labyrinth has been found, of course, but many speculate that the palace itself, with its maze of staircases, courtyards and parlors, inspired the legend.

Language: Greek     Currency: Euro (EUR)