Mycenae

Path_upto_the_Lion_Gate,_Mycenae_(28693130016)

Error creating thumbnail:

The_acropolis_at_Mycenae,_Dec._2001

Error creating thumbnail:

Mycenae_northern_gate_2006

Error creating thumbnail:

Mycenae_ruins_dsc06390

Error creating thumbnail:

Replicas_of_Mycenaean_swords_and_cups

Mykene.Treasure.of.Atreus.tholos

Error creating thumbnail:

Mycenae_-_Tomb_of_Clytemnestra

Mycenae Μυκῆναι
Archaeological site
The Lion Gate at Mycenae The Lion Gate at Mycenae
Country	Greece
Region	Peloponnese
Regional unit	Argolis
Population  (2011)
• Total	362

Mycenae (Greek: Μυκῆναι ) is an archaeological site located in Argolis, Peloponnese, Greece. It was one of the major centers of Greek civilization during the Bronze Age and played a significant role in Greek mythology and history. The site is situated about 90 kilometers southwest of Athens, in the northeastern part of the Peloponnese.

History

Mycenae was first settled in the Neolithic period, around 7000 BCE. However, it reached its peak during the Late Bronze Age, from approximately 1600 BCE to 1100 BCE. This period is often referred to as the Mycenaean period, named after the city itself. Mycenae is closely associated with the Mycenaean civilization, which is considered the first advanced civilization on mainland Greece.

The city is famously linked to the Trojan War and the epic tales of Homer, particularly the Iliad and the Odyssey. According to legend, Mycenae was ruled by King Agamemnon, who led the Greek forces during the Trojan War.

Archaeological Discoveries

The site of Mycenae was first excavated by the German archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann in the late 19th century. Schliemann's discoveries included the famous Lion Gate, the Grave Circle A, and the so-called Mask of Agamemnon. These findings provided significant insights into the Mycenaean civilization and its burial practices.

The Lion Gate is the main entrance to the citadel of Mycenae and is one of the most iconic structures of the site. It features a relief of two lions standing on either side of a column, symbolizing the power and strength of the city.

Architecture

Mycenae is renowned for its Cyclopean walls, massive stone structures that were believed to have been built by the mythical Cyclopes due to their enormous size. The city also features several tholos tombs, including the Treasury of Atreus, which is one of the largest and best-preserved examples of this type of tomb.

The Palace of Mycenae is another significant architectural feature. It served as the administrative and political center of the city and included various rooms, courtyards, and storage areas.

Decline and Legacy

The decline of Mycenae began around 1200 BCE, possibly due to a combination of natural disasters, invasions, and internal strife. By 1100 BCE, the city was largely abandoned. Despite its decline, Mycenae left a lasting legacy on Greek culture and history. The myths and legends associated with the city continued to inspire later Greek literature and art.

Related Pages

• Mycenaean civilization
• Trojan War
• Heinrich Schliemann
• Lion Gate
• Treasury of Atreus
• Cyclopean walls
• Greek mythology
• Iliad
• Odyssey