FBU4250274 Minoan archeological site of Phaistos. View over the central court from the north wing. The central court was a basic architectural element of Minoen palace. It is a core around which the different wing are set. This central court was built in the time of the old palace (1900-1700 BC). It was also use in the New Palace. The central court was used for economic, social and religious activities of the palace. The stairs, visible here, led to the upper floor of the palace. Phaistos, Crete. by Minoan; (add.info.: Minoan archeological site of Phaistos. View over the central court from the north wing. The central court was a basic architectural element of Minoen palace. It is a core around which the different wing are set. This central court was built in the time of the old palace (1900-1700 BC). It was also use in the New Palace. The central court was used for economic, social and religious activities of the palace. The stairs, visible here, led to the upper floor of the palace. Phaistos, Crete.); Photo by Frank Buffetrille; out of copyright.