At the northernmost tip of eastern Crete lies the Minoan settlement of Palaikastro, which flourished during the Late Minoan period (1550–1220 BC). Evidence of occupation from the Early and Middle Minoan periods (3000–1550 BC) has also been discovered, mainly in the form of cemeteries with ossuaries and large residences. The settlement was initially abandoned around 1450 BC and was later reoccupied during Late Minoan III (1300–1200 BC). The city covered an area of more than 50,000 square metres, was unfortified, and densely populated.

To the northeast of the city, the sanctuary of Diktaean Zeus was discovered. It was administratively connected with Itanos, and worship continued there from the 8th century BC until the Roman conquest. The sanctuary was destroyed at the end of the 4th century AD.

The city was organized around a central road, with perpendicular paved streets dividing it into nine quarters. An extensive drainage system served all neighbourhoods, while the houses along the main road had impressive façades.

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