Greece celebrated the UNESCO World Heritage listing of six Minoan palace centers on Crete at a ceremony on Friday at the ancient archaeological site of Zominthos, on the slopes of Mount Psiloritis.

Culture Minister Lina Mendoni addressed officials, UNESCO representatives, local authorities, and scientists at the event. “Today’s celebration is not only about marking a top international distinction for Greece and Crete,” she said. “It is a moment of self-awareness, historical consciousness, collective responsibility, and deep emotion.”

Lina Mendoni described Zominthos as uniquely symbolic – the only known Minoan palace center in a mountainous setting, situated on the ancient road linking Knossos to the Idaean Cave.