Within the Heraklion regional unit's boundaries are a number of significant Neolithic and Minoan settlements, most notably the ancient palace complexes of Knossos and Phaistos. While both archaeological sites evince Neolithic habitation, it is the rich finds of Minoan civilization, which flourished approximately 2000 to 1600 BC, that command the greatest scholarly attention.
Important ancient cities are: Knossos, Phaistos, Gortys, Tylissos, Malia.