With a fire safety network and lightning protection system, the Greek Ministry of Culture is shielding the archaeological site of Knossos as part of a broader effort to protect and showcase the Minoan palace, while also improving the visitor experience. The project has a total budget of €3.5 million and is included in the Regional Operational Programme "Crete 2021–2027". This initiative – along with the overall redevelopment of Knossos – is a priority for the Ministry. The goal is to permanently manage operational and aesthetic issues, ensuring a full upgrade of the site and enhancing the visitor experience.

Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni stated:
“Knossos is the second most visited archaeological site in Greece, after the Acropolis of Athens. Promoting the Minoan Palace of Knossos, along with five other palace complexes from the same period, is a key priority for the Ministry. These six Minoan palaces have been proposed for UNESCO World Heritage listing in 2025, as a serial nomination. Restoration projects are already underway at key monuments across the site, alongside upgrades that improve accessibility and the visitor tour. Critical protection measures are being completed to shield the site from lightning and fires, improving safety for staff and visitors. The comprehensive upgrade of Knossos aims to highlight its unique archaeological and historical significance, offering an experience worthy of the scale and importance of this Minoan treasure. I extend my sincere thanks to the Region of Crete and especially to Governor Stavros Arnaoutakis for his unwavering support and excellent cooperation.”

The active fire protection system in the surrounding area is designed to safeguard staff, visitors, the monument, and its infrastructure in the event of a fire. Fire suppression needs will be covered by a new firefighting unit, using the existing water tank. An underground pipeline network and a permanent water supply system with fire hydrants will be installed. The plan also includes fire cannons in strategic locations and the placement of portable fire extinguishers, suited to each space’s use. A fire detection system will also be operational, and emergency evacuation maps, assembly points, and fire protection equipment will be displayed throughout the site.

As part of the effort to protect and highlight Knossos, a lightning protection system will be installed. Specifically, three lightning protection systems will be set up: at Assembly Point 1, north of the monument under a new 320 m² canopy; at Assembly Point 2, southwest of the monument, near the pump station and guardhouse, under a new 201 m² canopy; and at Assembly Point 3, in the western entrance area, on top of an existing 258 m² pergola. A public address system will also be installed at selected locations to broadcast messages in case of fire or other emergencies.