In a historic decision on Saturday, July 12, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee officially added the Minoan palace centers of Crete to the World Heritage List. This international recognition affirms the Outstanding Universal Value of six major archaeological sites: Knossos, Phaistos, Malia, Zakros, Zominthos, and Kydonia. As part of the designation, Greece has committed to preserving and safeguarding the cultural heritage embodied in these iconic sites.
The decision was based on recommendations from the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), which confirmed the authenticity, integrity, and strong protective and management frameworks in place for these monuments.
BREAKING!
New inscription on the @UNESCO #WorldHeritage List: Minoan Palatial Centres, #Greece
.
https://t.co/seTyyVu3sT #47WHC pic.twitter.com/2HUKNLqIUX
— UNESCO
#Education #Sciences #Culture
(@UNESCO) July 12, 2025
Historical significance of palaces
The Minoan palaces are the most emblematic features of Minoan civilization—one of the most advanced and influential prehistoric cultures in the Eastern Mediterranean, flourishing from 2800 to 1100 BC. These palace centers were multifunctional in that they served as political, economic, religious, and artistic hubs. They were homes to ruling elites and were also administrative centers for production, trade, and ceremonial gatherings.
Each palace shared key architectural traits, including a north-south orientation, central rectangular courtyard, surrounding wings of rooms, multi-story structures, staircases, light wells, advanced water supply and drainage systems, and richly decorated interiors with wall paintings that shed light onto Minoan life. Notably, the palaces were not fortified, reflecting a society that seemingly prioritized openness over defense.
The nomination process
The official proposal was spearheaded by the Directorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities in collaboration with Crete’s Ephorates of Antiquities coupled with strong support from the Region of Crete. Crucial input came from foreign archaeological schools and leading excavation teams, while the University of Athens contributed environmental risk assessments, especially regarding climate change.
Various agencies and experts contributed to the extensive documentation, including the Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, which provided risk management plans for the sites. Additionally, a coordinated initiative, titled “Cultural Routes of Minoan Palace Centers,” was developed in cooperation with the Region of Crete to enhance visitor experience and site preservation.
Statement by Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni
Greek Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni, present at the inscription announcement, remarked:
“Today marks a milestone for our country, for the Greek people, for Crete, and for our cultural heritage across the ages. With the inscription of the Minoan Palatial Centers, the Minoan civilization—one of the most brilliant of the prehistoric Aegean—is officially recognized and established globally.
These palatial complexes are not merely administrative and economic centers; they are testaments to high artistic achievement, architectural innovation, and cultural exchange. They reflect an early European civilization that contributed foundational elements to our shared heritage.”
She thanked all those involved, including UNESCO representatives, the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Region of Crete officials, and her colleagues at the Ministry of Culture for their dedication and professionalism.
Mitsotakis: A global recognition of Minoan legacy
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis celebrated the UNESCO recognition, stating:
“Today’s decision by the 47th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee confirms the exceptional universal value of the Minoan civilization—one of the most radiant cultures of the prehistoric Aegean. It was born on Crete and became a root of European thought and aesthetics.
The myth of Europa’s abduction by Zeus and Ariadne’s thread have returned from ancient mythology to modern relevance, symbolizing timeless messages—chief among them, the constant human pursuit of freedom and progress.”
He emphasized that the recognition is the result of years of collective effort, including the contributions of the late Marianna Vardinoyannis, whose passionate advocacy helped shape the nomination. The Prime Minister extended congratulations to the Ministry of Culture, Greece’s permanent delegation to UNESCO, and all stakeholders involved in the successful outcome.
“In challenging times, another noble goal for our country has become reality,” he concluded. His statement in Greek reads: