We have started our 2024 trip to Greece, visiting the Archeological Site of Ancient Mycenae as our very first activity. After landing in Athens, we rented a car and began exploring. We are very excited as this trip is our first time to the Peloponnese and also first time to Karpathos Island. Our trip will conclude in Athens, which we are eager to return to. We did the Mycenae tour ourselves but if you do not want to drive, Viator has several different tours that you can look into. Check out this this day trip from Athens which includes Mycenae, Epidaurus and Nafplion. Or you can book you just tickets and an audio guide from GetYourGuide by clicking here.
History of Ancient Mycenae
Like many of the ancient places in Greece, Mycenae is an acropolis site. Built high on a hill, it would have been an important part of the city, the heart of the city. This is a strategic choice as from this area, you can see in all directions. Ancient Mycenae has existed since the end of the Bronze Age. This was from roughly 1750 BC to 1050 BC. According to many, the Mycenaen culture is the first culture specifically Greek. The people were from mainland Greece and also had a connection to the Minoans from Crete.
Mycenae was an advanced civilization, evidenced by their artwork, written work (Linear B), buildings, and city planning. Mycenae became a stronghold and perhaps the most powerful city in Greece beginning around 1550 BC. The Mycenaean culture flourished. In fact, the Mycenaean Age extends from the years of 1400 BC to 1200 BC. During part of this time, the Mycenaeans are even believed to have occupied Knossos on the Island of Crete.
Unfortunately, there was massive destruction throughout Mycenaean Greece when the Dorians invaded in 1100 BC. This invasion ultimately destroyed Mycenae itself by 1050 BC. This was the end of the Bronze Age. The Greek Dark Ages followed, which lasted until approximately 800 BC.
The Archeological Site
Lion Gate
When I think of Mycenae, the first thing that comes to mind is the Lion Gate. The Lion Gate is the main entryway into Mycenae. Most notable, both heads of the lions are missing. Regardless, the lions still form a grand main entrance. Above the entryway is a triangle which is part of the architectural structure. You can marvel at the two lions seen adorning this section of the entry way. Their purpose was basically to cover the structural triangular stones. Dating back to 1240 BC this entryway most likely had a fortified double door.
Granary
This area was got its name after finding carbonized cereal grains in the basement area. In addition, there was also pottery found here that is believed to have been used for grains. Along with the pottery, this building foundation dates back to the 13th century.
Grave Circle A
You can see several circular block. This forms part of the cemetery and is labeled as Grave Circle A. The graves date back to the 16th century BC. They contained the bodies of 19 adults and children of various ages. There were many beautiful finds in the grave including gold masks, weapons, jewelry, and also precious gems.
Great Ramp
Starting at the Lion Gate this ramp goes up the hill.
North Quarter
The North Quarter consists of buildings along the north slope and date back to the 13th century B.C. This area comprised of two large buildings with hallways and separate rooms. There were also courtyards. Impressively, this area had a fairly sophisticated drainage system for its time. In an area called the House of the Wine Merchant, many stirrup jars were found.
Palace
Built on the highest hill, the Mycenae Palace must have truly been a site to behold. Adorned with columns, mosaic floor and also frescos. The palace unfortunately met its demise by a fire in the 13th century.
Artesian’s Quarters
This area is part of the east wing of the palace. This building had an artists studio in it based on the discovery of finished and unfinished items found here. Items found were ivory, gold-leaf, and also semi-precious gems.
House of Columns
Built along the east slope, the House of Columns dates back to the 13th century BC. Named so because of the number of columns discovered among its ruins. It is possible this area is part of the palace.
Cistern
The Underground Cistern’s water sprang from a natural spring. This water was delivered to areas in the complex by underground aqueducts. All in all, this was quite elaborate for the times and assured the city continuous water supply.
The Postern Gate
Built around 1250 BC this gate is on the North side of the complex. Built out of four monolithic stones, this gate is quite remarkable.
The Treasury of Atreus
The Treasury of Atreus is also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon. Located just a short way from Ancient Mycenae this site is worth a stop. This treasury is one of the greatest examples of Mycenaean architecture. It is a beehive tomb that consists of an entrance (stominon), a passage (dromos), and a side chamber (tholos). This tomb was never covered and required no excavation. It has always been visible. Unfortunately, the individuals and content buried with them are unknown. The tomb had apparently been looted at some point in history.
Conclusion
We both enjoyed exploring Ancient Mycenae in Greece and also the Treasury of Atreus. Both are an amazing part of not only Greek history, but world history as well. In addition, the area Mycenae is located is absolutely beautiful. As we continue on our 2024 trip to Greece, we are falling in love with the Peloponese and also its rich history.
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Books About the Peloponnese
I love to read and I read many books about Greece. The following helped spike my interest in the Peloponese area of Greece for many different reasons.
- Greek Letters (Greek Quartet Series) by Suzi Stembridge This captivating series follows an Englishman and his family and their connection to Greece. The series starts in 1827 as the Englishman, on his journey to Greece, finds himself admist Greece fighting for its freedom. The 4 volumes follow the rich history of Greece as it overcomes the Ottoman rule and beyond. I really learned a lot about this time period of Greek history from reading these books. I also found the history of this era of the Peloponnese to be fascinating.
- A Boy Growing Up Under the Nazi Boot and the Greek Civil War by George C. Kradikas. This book is a true account of the early years of Mr Kakridas as his family endures hardships beyond compare while growing up near Sparta during occupation years. A poignant story told with the emotion and memories as only someone living through this period can retell.
- Mycenae from Myth to History This extraordinary book not only goes in-depth to the history and archeological study of ancient Mycenae, it also features photography by Robert McCabe. Actually that is why I purchased this book. Robert McCabe has taken black and white photographs of the Greece we do not see for decades and his work is beautiful.
More Books About Greece
Although these next books are not set in the Peloponnese, they are wonderful reads that will endear you to Greece and make you want to book a trip as soon as possible!
- Parthenon on our Roof by Peter Barber. This fun book is a great read to learn more about Greek culture. Peter, an Englishman, moves to Greece and marries his Greek girlfriend, Alex. Read about their adventures as he navigates his new lifestyle in a humorous and also relatable way. As a matter of fact, this is the first in his series and each book leaves you wanting to read more of their adventures.
- Goat in the Maze by Katerina Nikolas. This is the first in a series of books set in a small fictional village in Greece. I have laughed out loud at many of the antics of this fun written series. It has been a great summer read.
- Although not a story type book I love the cookbook, A Drop of Lady & My Greek Soul. Chef Krystina Kalapothakos family history is from the Mani Peninsula area. Her cookbook not only has wonderful, easy to follow Greek recipes, but she also includes great stories and insightful articles on Greece and its cooking culture. Along with family stories, information of interest, and beautiful photos, this book is truly a treasure for anyone who loves Greece!
Greece at Home
I have had a hard time finding Greek items that I love to import to my home in the United States. Below are a few links to items I have found to be dependable and great items. I actually use all of these items almost on a daily basis!
- For true Greek honey, mountain tea, and and also olive oil, I order online through Kilo Tea. They are prompt and in addition, I have never had problems with any of my orders. I highly recommend ordering from here as everything is delicious. You can click here to view and also order the Klio Tea products.
- A Greek product I love that I can order from home is Korres Skin care. This line of skin products uses natural products from around Greece and I really can feel and see the difference. You can check out their products by clicking here.
Resources
Rick Steve’s Athens and the Peloponese. When planning a trip I like to use travel books which I can mark, hi-light and take with me. If you have watched Rick Steves travel shows, and are familiar with him, this book will feel familiar. The book is organized and gives very good practical information. It even includes a great two week itinerary. What I especially like is Athens and the Peeloponese in one book is very convenient.
DK Eyewitness Guides are my tried and true tour guides for just about everywhere. . If you follow my posts, you will see I have recommended these for everywhere we go, from the USA to Europe. I love the way these books are broke down in sections for top 10 of each area, type of tours, places of interest and even places to eat. You can can click here to view the DK Eyewitness Guide for Mainland and Peloponnese.
Map of Greece. I really like the National Geographic Maps and use them everywhere. Therefore, I am getting quite a collection. I already have this map of Greece so I did not purchase a separate Peloponese map. The map is durable, and I have been using the same map for a number of years now.
My Greek Odyssey-My Greek Odyssey is a collection of videos amassed over a few years by Peter sailing and exploring Greece on his yacht. Peter has many adventures on the various islands and mainlands and these videos are a plethora of information.
Greeka.com-This web site has information on just about everything and everywhere in Greece. Worth taking a look at.
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Loving your intrepid trips! Enjoy the rest of your jpurney 💙🇬🇷
Thank you! Too far it has been a fabulous trip! Fun to see several of the places you mentioned on your journey!
Such a fascinating place with so much history. I always marvel at what they could build all those hundreds of years ago!
My husband and I have had that same conversation! So amazing!
We had the pleasure of seeing this last May. Thanks for bringing back the memories.
Great memories I am sure! Such a lovely site!
Fascinating with the history of Mycenae, and great photos. As with any sitrme, be sure to visit early in the morning or early evening.
It is indeed fascinating!
So much beautiful history! It’s awe inspiring. I get chills sometimes just looking at your photos. I can’t imagine what it’s like to see it all in person. Thanks for the tour!
Glad you enjoyed! We are really enjoying this trip and hate to go back home!