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Palace of Mycenae: Citadel of Agamemnon

Explore the Palace of Mycenae, the heart of Agamemnon's kingdom, with its Cyclopean walls, Lion Gate, and royal tombs dating back to the Bronze Age.

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Explore the Palace of Mycenae, the heart of the ancient Mycenaean civilization, dating back to 1600-1120 BCE. Perched atop a rocky hill, this palace offers a glimpse into the world of Agamemnon, with its Cyclopean walls, Lion Gate, and remnants of royal residences.

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Local tips

  • Arrive early or late in the day to avoid crowds and the summer heat.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves a fair amount of walking on uneven terrain.
  • Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially during the summer months.
  • Visit the Archaeological Museum of Mycenae to enhance your understanding of the site's history and significance.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Athens, take the National Road towards Corinth and then Tripoli. After passing Corinth, continue for about 25 kilometers and take the exit to Nafplio. From there, follow the signs to Mycenae. There is a parking area near the archaeological site, though it can get crowded during peak times. Parking along the road is also possible. Expect to pay around €5 for parking.

  • Public Transport

    KTEL buses connect Mycenae with Nafplion, Argos, and Athens. From Athens, buses depart from Terminal A (100 Kifissou). The Athens-Argos bus may drop you off at the turnoff at Fihtia, about 2km from Mycenae. From Nafplio, the bus journey to Mycenae takes around 30 minutes and costs approximately €2-3. From the bus stop in Mycenae, it's a short walk to the archaeological site.

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Discover more about Palace of Mycenae

The Palace of Mycenae, central to the Mycenaean civilization that flourished from 1750 to 1050 BC, is located on a commanding rocky hill in the Peloponnese region of Greece. This palace is linked to the legendary King Agamemnon, who led the Greeks in the Trojan War. Constructed during the Late Bronze Age, most of the visible monuments, including the palace and walls, date between 1350 and 1200 BC. The palace complex features imposing fortifications, including the Cyclopean walls, built with massive stones that only the mythical Cyclopes were believed to be strong enough to move. The Lion Gate, the main entrance to the city, is crowned by two stone lions, symbolizing the power of the Mycenaean rulers. Inside the citadel, the palace complex includes the megaron, which served as the central throne room, characterized by its rectangular shape, large hearth, and frescoes depicting warriors and dignitaries. Various rooms served administrative and residential functions, with workshops for luxury goods and trade networks extending across the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. Mycenae's significance stemmed from its role as a redistributive center for agricultural products and manufactured items, contributing to the power of its rulers. The site also includes Grave Circles A and B, royal cemeteries containing the remains of Mycenaean elite and their precious funerary gifts. The Treasury of Atreus, also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon, is a stunning tholos tomb built around 1250 BC. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the palace, walk the ancient grounds, and visit the Archaeological Museum of Mycenae to view artifacts discovered during excavations, offering insights into Mycenaean culture.

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