• Location Tymbaki, 63 km southwest of Heraklion
• History Inhabited from the Neolithic period to the Minoan palaces era
• Palaces The first palace was built in 1900 BC, destroyed in 1700 BC, and replaced with a new one
• Destruction The city was destroyed in 160 BC by Gortyn
• Mythology According to Homer, its founder was Rhadamanthys, son of Zeus

Phaistos was, in antiquity, the second most important city in Crete after Knossos, known for its rich history and architectural monuments. The ancient city was built on a hill that offered an excellent view of the fertile plain of Messara, making it a strategic location. It is located near the modern village of Tymbaki, on the southwestern side of the Heraklion regional unit, only 63 km from the city of Heraklion, making it an easily accessible archaeological site.

The habitation of Phaistos begins from the Neolithic period and continues until the establishment and prosperity of the Minoan palaces. The first palace was built in 1900 BC but was completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1700 BC. A new palace was built in its place, the ruins of which are preserved to this day. The Minoan palaces of Phaistos, with their intricate architectural elements, were significant centers of administration, religious worship, and economic activity.

Phaistos had two strong ports, Matala and Kommos, which ensured access to important trade routes and communication with other Minoan centers. Despite its significance, the city lost its power and was destroyed in 160 BC, when it was subjugated by neighboring Gortyn.

The first written references to Phaistos are found in Homer’s epics, where it is mentioned in the Iliad and the Odyssey as "eû naiētóōsa," meaning well-inhabited. According to tradition, Phaistos was founded by the mythical king Rhadamanthys, son of Zeus and brother of Minos. Rhadamanthys was renowned for his wisdom and integrity in judgment and contributed to the drafting of the Cretan Code, one of the earliest known legal codes.

The discovery of ancient Phaistos was made by the explorer Spartt, while systematic excavations began in 1884 by F. Halbherr and continued by the Italian Archaeological School. Today, the archaeological site of Phaistos offers visitors a unique opportunity to see the architecture and life of the Minoan civilization up close.