Hotels in Malia: Palace History and Bus Travel

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Tatjana Herzegova, Kiew, Ukraine

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Markus Lenk, Düsseldorf, Germany

For a stay in Malia, Minoan history and practical travel planning can be guided by specific points of reference. The palace is located in the town; the golden bee amulet from the necropolis is on display at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. There are also buses between Heraklion and Malia, as well as a service to and from the archaeological site that runs along the beaches of Malia to the east and Stalis to the west. If you are looking for a hotel, you can first decide whether palace history, beach areas, or the connection to Heraklion will shape your stay most.

History of the Minoan Palace

The Minoan Palace of Malia was originally built in 1900 BC and destroyed around 1450 BC. The two dates are about 450 years apart. For historical context, it is worth considering construction and destruction as two distinct events: the first date marks the original beginning, while the second marks the approximate end of the palace. Anyone interested in Minoan history will thus have a clear chronological reference point for a stay in Malia. The wording “around 1450 BC” indicates that this later date is approximate. The palace and the amulet highlight different aspects: the palace focuses on its construction and destruction, while the amulet is a single find featuring a bee motif. Historical dates and a specific artifact thus come together.

Amulet: Findspot and Exhibition

The golden amulet featuring bees was discovered in the necropolis of Malia and is on display at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Check before your visit whether the artifact is still on display.

Bus Connections for Planning

Two bus connections are important for travel planning. Buses run between Heraklion and Malia. A bus service also runs to and from the archaeological site of Malia, following the beaches of Malia to the east and Stalis to the west. When planning, check which information applies to your journey: the connection between the towns or the service along the beach areas and to the site. Check current timetables and local information before travelling, as routes, service details, and frequencies may change.

Choosing Hotels in Malia Based on Your Priorities

When looking for a hotel in Malia, first decide which of your interests will shape your stay: Minoan history, the beaches, or a trip to Heraklion. If both the museum and the palace are important to you, account for their different locations in your plans. If buses are part of your plans, check the timetables against your visit dates.

Discover more destinations: Skafidaras, Pompia, Kokkinos Pirgos, Kato Loutraki, Skalani, Kalo Chorio, Stalida, Mochos

Back to the main travel overview: Heraklion.

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