Archaeological Sites of Mycenae and Tiryns
Unesco World Heritage

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Archaeological Sites of Mycenae and Tiryns

The Archaeological Sites of Mycenae and Tiryns, located in the Prefecture of Argolis, Region of the Peloponnesos in Greece, are two ancient cities that played a significant role in the development of European civilization. These sites, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1999, are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Mycenaean civilization, which flourished during the Late Bronze Age.

History

Mycenae, the most famous of the two sites, was the center of the Mycenaean civilization and the legendary home of King Agamemnon. The city reached its peak between the 14th and 13th centuries BCE, dominating the Aegean region through its military and economic power. Mycenae was renowned for its impressive fortifications, including the famous Lion Gate, which served as the main entrance to the city.

Tiryns, located just a few kilometers from Mycenae, was another important Mycenaean city. It was believed to be the birthplace of the mythical hero Heracles and was known for its massive Cyclopean walls, constructed using enormous limestone blocks. These walls, which still stand today, are a remarkable example of ancient engineering and defensive architecture.

Both Mycenae and Tiryns were abandoned around the 12th century BCE, likely due to a combination of factors such as political instability, natural disasters, and invasions. Over time, these once-thriving cities were gradually forgotten and buried under layers of earth and vegetation.

Current State

Today, the Archaeological Sites of Mycenae and Tiryns are meticulously preserved and open to the public, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore the remnants of these ancient civilizations.

At Mycenae, visitors can marvel at the imposing Lion Gate, the symbol of the city, and explore the ruins of the palace complex, which once housed the ruling elite. The Treasury of Atreus, a magnificent tholos tomb, is another highlight of the site. Its impressive corbelled dome is a testament to the advanced architectural skills of the Mycenaeans.

In Tiryns, visitors can wander through the labyrinthine corridors of the ancient citadel and admire the Cyclopean walls that encircle the site. The palace complex, although mostly in ruins, still offers glimpses of its former grandeur.

Both sites are accompanied by informative signage and guided tours, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of these ancient cities. The museums located on-site also house a wealth of artifacts, including pottery, jewelry, and weapons, offering further insights into the daily life and achievements of the Mycenaean civilization.

The Archaeological Sites of Mycenae and Tiryns are not only important for their historical value but also for their contribution to our understanding of ancient Greek civilization. These sites serve as a reminder of the ingenuity and cultural achievements of the Mycenaeans, who laid the foundations for Western civilization as we know it today.

Videos from the area

The Ancient City of Mycenae Greece

Published: March 23, 2012
Length: 57:02 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: David Kendall

The Ancient City of Mycenae Greece. The Lion's Gate and the Treasury (Tholos Tomb) of Atreus were built some one hundred years before the first large scale destruction of Mycenae by the Sea...

Ancient Mycenae - Peloponnese, Greece

Published: May 22, 2013
Length: 32:47 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Davidsbeenhere

Check out our Best of Athens Travel Guide http://davidsbeenhere.com/product/best-athens-greece-city-travel-guide-2014/ and http://davidsbeenhere.com David's Been Here takes you from Athens,...

Besuch der bedeutenden antiken Stadt Mykene.

Published: July 30, 2013
Length: 00:17 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Reto Berner

via youtube Capture.

Mycènes Némée jamesrnr

Published: June 15, 2012
Length: 12:16 min
Rating: 3 of 5
Author: jean-marc Halbwachs

Citée antique, siège de drames classiques..Némée où vivait le lion que tua Heracles, et, le lac Stymphale célèbre pour ses oiseaux mythiques ..Yesterday en fond musical (que j'ai repris...

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