Minoan archeological site of Phaistos. General view of the west wing shrines along the central...

Minoan archeological site of Phaistos. General view of the west wing shrines along the central court from the north wing. There were two types of shrine: “Bench shrine” and “Lutral Basin””. The “” bench Shrine”” was a small and rectangular room with low benches running round the walls to support cult objects and figurine of the deity. On some of them were found female figurine, ritual vessels, and “” offering tables”” (small altar). The “” Lustral Basin”” type was a room lower than the founding structures, with a few steps leading down into them. It was used for purification rituals.