The Labyrinth of Crete

Greek mythology · mazes · King Minos

Built by Daedalus. A legendary artificer named Daedalus designed and constructed this elaborate maze for King Minos on the island of Crete. It was so cleverly made that even Daedalus himself could barely find his way out after he finished building it.

Prison for the Minotaur. The Labyrinth was created to trap the Minotaur, a frightening creature that was part man and part bull. King Minos kept the monster locked inside the confusing maze where it couldn't escape or harm anyone.

Theseus defeats the monster. The hero Theseus entered the Labyrinth to face the Minotaur and succeeded in killing the creature. His friend Ariadne gave him a ball of thread to follow back out so he wouldn't get lost in the maze.

Located at Knossos. The Labyrinth was said to be built at Knossos, a real place on the island of Crete in Greece. Archaeologists have actually found the ruins of an ancient palace there that matches some parts of the legend.

Genius engineering feat. The Labyrinth represented the incredible skill of Daedalus, who was known in Greek myths as a master inventor and builder. His cunning design made the maze so complicated that it was nearly impossible to navigate without help.