UNESCO has added six Minoan palace centers in Crete to its World Heritage list, following a decision by the World Heritage Committee during its 47th session on Saturday.

The sites include Knossos, Phaistos, Malia, Zakros, Zominthos and Kydonia, all key centers of the Bronze Age Minoan civilization, which flourished between 2800 and 1100 BCE.

The inscription recognizes the sites’ historical significance, architectural integrity and the existence of a comprehensive protection and management framework.

According to Greece’s Culture Ministry, the listing followed a multi-year nomination process led by ministry staff in cooperation with regional and national authorities.

“The Minoan civilization, one of the most prominent of the prehistoric Aegean, is now globally acknowledged,” said Culture Minister Lina Mendoni. “These palaces were centers of culture, administration, and innovation, helping shape early European history.”

UNESCO’s decision was based on an evaluation by its advisory body, ICOMOS.

Source: Ekathimerini.com