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Ancient Mycenae

Ancient Mycenae, is found at a distance of 35 kilometers (approximately 21.7 miles) from our rooms in Vivari and the archaeological site of Mycenae is one of the most important and iconic sites in all of Greece. As the center of the Mycenaean civilization, which flourished between 1600 and 1100 BCE, Mycenae was important in both Greek history and in mythology. The impressive ruins, its legendary past, make it a must-visit destination for anyone in the area of Nafplio.

Mycenae was a powerful and rich city, ruling over most of southern Greece. It was the seat of Agamemnon, the legendary king who led the Greeks in the Trojan War, as famously recounted in Homer’s Iliad. The Mycenaeans were known for their advanced engineering, evident at the archaeological site in the massive structures and their architecture, including the famous Cyclopean walls, which were so large that the myths that emerged were that only Cyclopes could have built them.
The Mycenaean civilization that flourished here was one of the first advanced cultures in Europe, with a sophisticated system of writing (Linear B), extensive trade networks, and a highly developed social structure. Mycenae’s decline began around 1100 BCE, likely due to a combination of natural disasters, internal strife, and invasions by the Dorians, leading to the eventual collapse of the Mycenaean civilization.

The Lion Gate is perhaps the most iconic symbol of Mycenae, a monumental entrance decorated with two carved lions. It was used as the main entrance to the citadel and dates back to around 1250 BCE, is one of the oldest examples of monumental sculptures in Europe.
Mycenae is home to several tholos tombs, also known as beehive tombs, due to their distinctive shape. The most famous of these is the Treasury of Atreus, believed to be the tomb of King Agamemnon. These tombs were used for the burial of royalty and were filled with precious items, including gold death masks, jewelry, and weapons, many of which are now displayed in the National Archaeological Museum in Athens.
The remains of the palace at Mycenae give us an insight into the life of the elite and the social structure of Mycenae. The complex includes the megaron, a large hall that served as the throne room, surrounded by smaller rooms that were likely used for administrative purposes. The Cyclopean Walls were made of huge pieces of limestone, surrounded the city and served as fortifications. The precision that these stones cut were with and fitted together is astoninshing considering their weight and an ode to the Mycenaeans’ advanced engineering skills. This burial site. Circle Grave A, is located within the citadel and was discovered by Heinrich Schliemann in the late 19th century. The graves contained numerous artifacts, including the famous Mask of Agamemnon, which is a highlight of the Mycenaean treasures.

Mycenae is firmly rooted in Greek mythology. In addition to being the home of Agamemnon, it is also associated with several legendary figures, including Atreus, Electra, and Orestes. According to myth the House of Atreus, the ruling dynasty of Mycenae, was cursed due to a series of heinous crimes committed the fmaily members, including murder, betrayal, and cannibalism. These stories of betrayal and revenge, especially the tale of Agamemnon’s murder by his wife Clytemnestra and his son Orestes’ revenge, are central to Greek tragedy and have been the subject of plays by Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides.

Ancient Mycenae is located about 35 kilometers from our rooms in Vivari, a journey of approximately 40 minutes by car. The route takes you through the Greek countryside in Argolida, making it an enjoyable trip for those staying in Vivari and want to explore the ancient history of the area.