Approximately 5 km from the village of Alagni, lies the Minoan palace of Galatas. This monumental palatial complex was founded during the MMIIIA neopalatial period (1700–1650 B.C) and served as a political, financial and religious center of a large settlement.

Based on archaeological research, the stones used for the construction of the palace were sourced from the quarry operating at “Psarades” in Alagni, which nowadays hosts the vineyards and cellar of Lyrarakis winery. A network of other smaller settlements, including structures in Alagni, was developed around Galatas, in direct contact and partnership with the palace.

The existence of another Minoan neopalatial large building of elaborate architecture just 3 km away from Alagni is not considered coincidental by archaeologists. The area was inspected by the Ephorate of Antiquities; however, no official excavation took place. The inspection revealed the base of a column on a pilaster, part of a colonnade or propylon, as well as masonry built with the white limestone of the nearby Psarades quarry, allowing archaeologists to conclude that this was an important building of urban architecture. It is also believed that because of the colour and smooth surface of these limestones, the area was given its current name “Marmara”, meaning marble in Greek.