Minoan Palace of Monastiraki

Located northeast of the village Monastiraki, at a site known as Kokkinos Harakas, significant palatial Minoan structures were uncovered during excavations that began in 1980. The palace spans an estimated 30 hectares, though only its core has been exposed so far.

These excavations have brought to light warehouses, workshops, houses, sanctuaries, and some official apartments. Among the discoveries are numerous stamps (used for regulating trade), stone vessels, Kamares-style vases, and many jars for storing oil, wine, cereals, and pulses. The palace was destroyed in 1700 BC, along with all other major palaces of that time. It is believed that it oversaw trade in central Crete and was a subsidiary of the Palace of Phaestus.