Mycenae1

MYCENAE | THE ACROPOLIS OF THE KINGS

Mycenae was a fortified late Bronze Age city located between two hills on the Argolid plain of the Peloponnece, Greece. The acropolis today dates from between the 14th and 13th century BCE when the Mycenean civilization was at its peak of power, influence and artistic expression.

In Greek mythology the city was founded by Perseus, who gave the site its name either after his sword scabbard (mykes) fell to the ground and was regarded as a good omen or as he found a water spring near a mushroom (mykes). Perseus was the first king of the Perseid dynasty which ended with Eurytheus (instigator of Hercules’ famous twelve labours). The succeeding dynasty was the Atreids, whose first king, Atreus, is traditionally believed to have reigned around 1250 BCE. Atreus’ son Agamemnon is believed to have been not only king of Mycenae but of all of the Archaean Greeks and leader of their expedition to Troy to recapture Helen. In Homer’s account of the Trojan War in the Illiad, Mycenae (or Mykene) is described as a ‘well-founded citadel’, as ‘wide-wayed’ and as ‘golden Mycenae’, the latter supported by the recovery of over 15 kilograms of gold objects recovered from the shaft graves in the acropolis.

Source: Ancient History Encyclopedia

Meet your Local Historian and surrender to a magical journey through time: the glorious past of the Bronze Age. Walk the Cyclopean Lions’s Gate like Kings, step on the same stones as Agamemnon did back in the 13th century BCE, enter the high-ceiling royal tombs and let the gigantic dome literally take your breath. It might seem unbelievable but you are truly visiting a place of more than 3.300 years of age. While at the same time nature deliberately offers stunning views of the rich Valley of Argos stretching below your feet. Undoubtedly ancient Greeks owned excellent sense of taste.

Duration: approximately 2 Hours

Cost: Prices upon request

What’s included: Local Licensed Historian, Entrance to Archaeological Site, Museum and Atreus’ Treasure.

LOCATION

Mycenae, Τ.Κ. 21 200, Mykines

(approximately 50min drive from Xiropigado)

LINKS

Detailed Information

Mycenae Museum

BLUE MOSAIC VILLAS IN THE AREA