Archaeological Site of Mycenae - Archaeological Sites of Mycenae and Tiryns
Mykene, Greece
07.05.2019
The Archaeological Site of Mycenae - A Fascinating Journey Through Ancient Greek History
The Archaeological Site of Mycenae, located in the Peloponnese region of Greece, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds immense historical and cultural significance. This ancient city was once the center of the Mycenaean civilization, which flourished from the 16th to 12th century BC. It is believed to have been founded by the legendary king Agamemnon, who played a prominent role in the Trojan War.
The site is dominated by the imposing 'Lion Gate', the main entrance to the citadel of Mycenae. This gate is named after the two large lions that flank the entrance, and is considered to be one of the most iconic and well-preserved examples of ancient Greek architecture. Passing through the gate, visitors are greeted by the remains of the Cyclopean walls, which were built using massive limestone blocks without the use of mortar.
The most remarkable structure within the citadel is the 'Treasury of Atreus', a monumental tomb that is also known as the 'Tomb of Agamemnon'. This impressive beehive-shaped structure is believed to have been built in the 14th century BC and is a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the Mycenaeans.
Exploring the site further, visitors can discover the 'Palace of Nestor', a complex of buildings that served as the administrative center of Mycenae. The palace features a central courtyard, throne room, and living quarters, providing insight into the daily life of the Mycenaean elite.
The Archaeological Site of Mycenae also includes several other significant structures, such as the 'Grave Circle A', a royal cemetery where many Mycenaean rulers were buried, and the 'House of Columns', a megaron-style building that is believed to have been the residence of the king. Together, these structures provide a glimpse into the power and grandeur of the Mycenaean civilization.
For those interested in ancient Greek history and archaeology, a visit to the Archaeological Site of Mycenae is a must. With its impressive architecture, rich history, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape, it is truly a fascinating journey through the ancient world.
Further Reading:
- The Lion Gate - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lion_Gate
- The Treasury of Atreus - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treasury_of_Atreus
- The Palace of Nestor - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palace_of_Nestor
The archaeological sites of Mycenae and Tiryns are the imposing ruins of the two greatest cities of the Mycenaean civilization, which dominated the eastern Mediterranean world from the 15th to the 12th century B.C. and played a vital role in the development of classical Greek culture. These two cities are indissolubly linked to the Homeric epics, the Iliad and the Odyssey , which have influenced European art and literature for more than three millennia.
Mycenae ( my-SEE-nee; Mycenaean Greek: ; Ancient Greek: Μυκῆναι or Μυκήνη, Mykē̂nai or Mykḗnē) is an archaeological site near Mykines in Argolis, north-eastern Peloponnese, Greece. It is located about 120 kilometres (75 miles) south-west of Athens; 11 kilometres (7 miles) north of Argos; and 48 kilometres (30 miles) south of Corinth. The site is 19 kilometres (12 miles) inland from the Saronic Gulf and built upon a hill rising 900 feet (274 metres) above sea level.
In the second millennium BC, Mycenae was one of the major centres of Greek civilisation, a military stronghold which dominated much of southern Greece, Crete, the Cyclades and parts of southwest Anatolia. The period of Greek history from about 1600 BC to about 1100 BC is called Mycenaean in reference to Mycenae. At its peak in 1350 BC, the citadel and lower town had a population of 30,000 and an area of 32 hectares (79 acres).
The first correct identification of Mycenae in modern literature was in 1700, during a survey conducted by the Venetian engineer Francesco Vandeyk on behalf of Francesco Grimani, the Provveditore Generale of the Kingdom of the Morea. Vandeyk used Pausanias's description of the Lion Gate to identify the ruins of Mycenae.
In 1999 the archeological site of Mycenae was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, along with the nearby site of Tiryns, because of its historical importance as the center of the Mycenaean civilization, its outstanding architecture and its testimony to the development of Ancient Greek civilization.
The Lion Gate, the Treasury of Atreus and the walls of Mycenae and Tiryns are examples of the noteworthy architecture found in Mycenae and Tiryns. The structures and layouts of these discoveries exemplify the creative talent of the time. Greek architecture and urban planning have been significantly influenced by the Mycenaean civilization. Mycenae and Tiryns, which stand as the pinnacle of the early phases of Greek civilisation, provided unique witness to political, social and economic growth during the Mycenaean civilization. The accomplishments of the Mycenaean civilisation in art, architecture and technology, which inspired European cultures, are also on display at both locations.
These sites are strongly connected to the Homeric epics. The earliest examples of the Greek language are also visible at Mycenae and Tiryn, preserved on Linear B tablets.
A stringent legal framework was established to safeguard the integrity of the Mycenae and Tiryns sites against vandalism and other forms of damage and disturbance to the remains. The Hellenic Ministry of Culture and Sports monitors the two archaeological sites. To maintain the quality and conditions of the Mycenaean and Tiryn sites, archaeological study is conducted methodically and systematically.
The Greek Antiquities Law No 3028/2002, on the ‘Conservation of Antiquities and Cultural Heritage in General’, governs the preservation and protection of the sites. Ministerial Decree No 2160 of 1964 created and safeguarded the limits of Mycenae in addition to the sites themselves. The acropolis and the wider surroundings are also covered by the extension of protection conferred by this ministerial decree. Ministerial Decrees No 102098/4753 of 1956 and 12613/696 of 1991 both provide protection for the Tiryns archaeological site.
