Mycenae

in Peloponnese

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About Mycenae
Ancient Mycenae is a legendary city, whose imposing remains attract visitors from the around world. In fact,
this is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, and its most antique findings date from
3,000 BC.
The area was excavated by the German amateur archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann in 1870. This
constituted a milestone, since Mycenae was mainly thought to exist just in literature and myths. The findings
of Schliemann proved that the information provided by Homer in the Iliad, or by the famous geographer
Pausanias was true. In fact, the Iliad was used as an important reference in order to find the place to start
the excavation project.
Many of the uncovered objects are now on display at the Archaeological Museum of Mycenae. According
to the Greek tradition, it had an acropolis, which belonged to the 13th century BC. It was actually rebuilt in
this period- and was constructed on strong Cyclopean walls with a thickness of five metres. The name of this
style is given by the large size of the blocks used. A mythological explanation attributed this work to the
powerful Cyclops.
The entrance of this wall, known as the Gate of the Lions, is the most ancient example of monumental
sculpture, not only in Greece, but in the whole Europe. Although the Mycenaean people are known as
being efficient warriors and hunters, the mentioned findings provide more information about their activities
and way of life. The pottery provide signs of extensive trading between Mycenae and other city-states. In
fact, remains of Mycenaean pottery were found as far as Italy and Egypt.
Mycenae has also the reputation of counting on good merchants, dedicated to trade oil, animal skins and
other raw articles for fine objects like jewellery from Crete, Egypt, and Asia Minor. The ivory carvings, gold
ornaments, and jewellery that were found also give an idea of their wealth , although unlike the Minoans,
Mycenaean society destined richness to the king and other officials and was not shared with the rest of the
population.
Domestic artefacts such as cups and lots of bronze weapons where also found. The graves are another
important component of Mycenaean civilization. Before 1500 BC, the important persons of the Mycenaean
society used to be buried in deep shaft graves. However, after this century the famous Tholos tombs were
created. These tombs are basically a monumental work, consisting of great chambers cut into a side of a
hill. Burying their leaders in such sumptuous environments is typical from such cultures.
The Tholos tombs were found in 1870 as well. The most important object found is the golden mask of
Agamemnon, which along with other masks found in the graves of important Mycenaean chieftains, prove
the Mycenaean tradition of burying important persons with a golden mask.

Best Sightseeing in Mycenae

Lion Gate

Location: Ancient Site

This is the most famous spot of Mycenae. The entrance gate to the ancient town of Mycenae has two lions on top of
it.

Treasury of Atreus

Location: Ancient Site

Located in a walking distance from the ancient site, the Treasury of Atreus is actually a vaulted tomb. When it was
discovered, it has already been looted centuries ago. Archaeologists believe that this was the tomb of Agamemnon,
the famous king of Mycenae, and that a golden treasury has been buried inside with the king.

Archaeological Museum

Location: Ancient Site

The Archaeological Museum of Mycenae has two floors with exhibits from excavations in the site. It is located in
close distance to the Lion Gate.

Credits
Greeka.com would like to thank the following members for their valuable contribution, as some of the photos
included in this guide belong to them.
buelensc, glljansen, greeceiseu, klauderie, milos58, philsmith, tinawaldo, vasia

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