- Region
- Sitia, far east Crete
- Palace
- c. 1900–1450 BC, about 300 rooms
- Gorge
- About 2 hours from Ano Zakros
- Phone (site)
- +30 28430 26897
The palace
An older palace was built around 1900 BC and a new one around 1600 BC; it was destroyed around 1450 BC. Covering more than 8,000 m² with about 300 rooms, it is laid out around a central court, with a ceremonial west wing, royal quarters to the east and workshops for perfume and faience to the south.
Excavations led by Nikolaos Platon found a treasury that had never been looted, the only one of its kind, as well as a Linear A archive. The finds are in the Heraklion museum.
The beach
The bay has a beach of pebbles and coarse sand with clear water, and a handful of fish tavernas and rooms. It is very quiet in the evening.
Gorge of the Dead
The gorge takes its name from Minoan burials in caves in its walls. The walk from Ano Zakros to the palace takes about 2 hours, downhill and shaded in parts. Arrange a taxi back up, or walk only the lower half from Kato Zakros.
Getting there
The road from Sitia via Palekastro and Ano Zakros takes about an hour.
Questions before you go
What makes Zakros palace special?
Its treasury was found unlooted, unlike any other Minoan palace.
How long is the Gorge of the Dead walk?
About 2 hours from Ano Zakros to Kato Zakros.
Can you stay in Kato Zakros?
Yes, there are rooms and tavernas by the beach.
