An elaborate, multi-storied building, with historical significance rivalling that of the famed Palace of Knossos, has unearthed a feature never before seen in a Minoan palace: a Portico Sanctuary, or sacred gateway. Positioned outside the main entrance of the Minoan Palace of Archanes on Crete, this sanctuary is marked by the presence of four altars and the twin arms of a giant stone platform – clearly a site of religious importance.
Uncovering the Sacred Gate: Religious Ritualism in Ancient Times
The Minoan city of Archanes, with its palace complex dating back to approximately 1900 BC, is situated within a secluded valley about 15 kilometers (9 miles) south of the Knossos palace on Crete. First identified in the 1960s, the Archanes site has since been recognized for its close historical ties with Minoan civilization.
Under the guidance of archaeologist Dr. Efi Sapouna-Sakellarakis, the recent excavation at the Minoan Palace of Archanes has also revealed a pyramidal base atop this platform in an earlier part of the excavation season. Prior to that, a double-axe base discovered in previous investigations indicated a carefully planned, possibly tiered arrangement, reports a press release by the Greek Ministry of Culture.
The entrance with the four altars (on the right in the photo) and two more altars, one rectangular and one stepped, inside the sanctuary courtyard. (Greek Ministry of Culture)
“Archaeologist Dr Efi Sapouna-Sakellarakis continued the archaeological research to complete the…
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