The Minoan Palace of Malia is one of the most important archaeological sites in Crete and lies just 3 kilometers east of the modern town of Malia. With easy access by rental car from AutoClubRent, it’s the perfect cultural excursion for history lovers and curious travelers alike.
The Palace of Malia is the third-largest of the Minoan palaces, covering an area of 7,500 square meters. According to Cretan myth, the palace was ruled by Sarpedon, son of Zeus and Europa, and brother of King Minos. It is often referred to as the most "provincial" of the palaces due to its architectural simplicity compared to Knossos or Phaistos.
The palace features two floors, a central courtyard, royal quarters, theatre area, sanctuaries, magazines (storerooms), and workshops. Visitors enter through the western paved court via a ceremonial processional path.
One of the most remarkable features is the recently discovered hypostyle crypt—an underground chamber with a column-supported ceiling, believed to be a council hall for political deliberations. This structure resembles the classical Greek Prytaneion in function and layout.
Today, most visible ruins belong to this second, post-1700 BC palace.
Excavations began in 1915 by J. Chatzidakis and were later continued by the French Archaeological School. Aside from the palace, researchers uncovered Minoan homes and the cemetery at Chryssolakos. Artifacts from these sites are displayed at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos.
Reaching the Palace of Malia is simple and comfortable when you rent a car from AutoClubRent. Just a short 5-minute drive from town, it’s the perfect half-day cultural escape. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore both ancient landmarks and the modern beachside town at your own pace.
Book your car today with AutoClubRent and walk in the footsteps of Minoan kings at the Palace of Malia!
HeraklionAgia PelagiaAgiofaraggoAmoudaraArhanesCretaquariumAncient GortysFodeleHersonissosKalamakiKnossosLentasMaliaMatalaMinoan Palace of MaliaMinoan Palace of PhaistosThe Fortress of KoulesZarosRethymnon CityAgia GaliniAnogiaArgyroupolisArkadi MonasteryBali monasteryMelidoni cavePlakiasPreveliPreveli monasteryPsiloritisSpiliFortezzaVenetian Harbor
