Knossos Palace Tour

Knossos, the Grand Staircase

The monumental Grand Staircase of Knossos is leading to the Royal Apartments, and it is considered a miracle of architecture. Here we must note the importance of light-wells, an integral feature of Minoan palatial architecture. This part of the palace is now closed to visitors, due to conservation and protection concerns.

The Royal Apartments were built into the hillside and are therefore preserved to a reasonable height. The east side of the Palace was five storeys high, while the west side, from which we enter Knossos, was three storeys high (according to Evans).

The Grand Staircase has two wings and is framed by a colonnade supporting the superstructure. The two lower levels are original, while the two upper have been restored. The width, height and slight inclination of the steps make the staircase particularly easy to use.

Knossos map : Grand Staircase = No 09

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