Greece: Archaeological site of Mycenae

May 11, 2025
Greece
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In the second millennium BC, Mycenae was one of the major centres of Greek civilization, a military stronghold which dominated much of southern Greece, Crete, the Cyclades and parts of southwest Anatolia. The period of Greek history from about 1600 BCE to about 1100 BCE is called Mycenaean in reference to Mycenae. At its peak in 1350 BCE, the citadel and lower town had a population of 30,000 and an area of 32 hectares. In 1999, the archaeological site of Mycenae was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, along with the nearby site of Tiryns, because of its historical importance as the centre of the Mycenaean civilization, its outstanding architecture, and its testimony to the development of Ancient Greek civilization.

The entrance to the main area of the archaeological site is through the ‘Lion Gate,’ which is named after the stone relief of rearing lions that fills the reliving triangle.

The trail winds its way up the hill to the former palace. Below the palace is a series of ruins of the citadel house including the cult centre. There were also the royal cemeteries in Grave Circle A, which the German archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann believed to contain the remains of Agamemnon and his coterie, murdered upon return from Troy, with the famous gold mask found at the same time loudly proclaimed as the mask of Agamemnon himself, though these graves were later found to date from some three centuries prior to the Trojan War.

The Royal Palace sits on top of the hill. The palace was rebuilt in the 13th century BCE and is quite elaborate, the rooms easy to distinguish. It was built around a main central court (like all Mycenaean palaces), with a supposed staircase leading to the large throne room and a double porch to the main hall (megaron), with the typical round hearth. One of the small rooms on the north side, believed to have been royal apartments, are remains of a red stuccoed bath, which is believed by some to have been the scene of the bloody murder of Agamemnon.

On the east side of the Palace are some additional ruins. Within this area is an ancient cistern, which we took the steps down. At the bottom, it was a little claustrophobic, so we didn’t stay too long.

Our visit to the site was short, and we didn’t go into the museum, as we still had some distance to travel, and we had a deadline to return the rental car, so we didn’t get charged an extra day.

Planning your visit to the Archaeological Site of Mycenae

1. Getting There

By Car: Mycenae is located about 120 km southwest of Athens and is accessible by car via the National Road (A7). The drive takes approximately 1.5–2 hours.
By Bus: KTEL Argolida runs buses from Athens to Nafplio, with a stop at Mycenae.
Tour Options: Many companies offer guided day tours from Athens, often combined with stops at nearby attractions like Epidaurus or Nafplio.

2. Opening Hours

Opening hours vary seasonally, so it’s essential to check before your visit. Generally:
- Summer (April–October): 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.
- Winter (November–March): 8:30 AM–3:30 PM.
The site may close on public holidays or due to weather conditions.

3. Tickets

Standard Admission: Around €12, which typically includes entry to the Archaeological Museum of Mycenae.
Reduced Admission: €6 for eligible visitors (students from non-EU countries, seniors from EU countries).
Free Admission Days: Certain days like International Museum Day (May 18) or the first Sunday of each month (November–March).

4. Highlights of the Site

Lion Gate: The iconic entrance to the citadel, adorned with a relief of two lions.
Grave Circle A: A burial site of royal tombs with impressive grave goods discovered by Heinrich Schliemann.
Treasury of Atreus: A large tholos tomb, also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon.
Cyclopean Walls: Massive stone walls that showcase the advanced engineering skills of the Mycenaeans.
Archaeological Museum: Displays artifacts from the site, including pottery, jewelry, and frescoes.

5. Practical Tips

Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes; the site has uneven terrain and some uphill walking.
Weather: Bring sun protection and water in summer, as there’s little shade.
Guided Tours: Opt for a guided tour or audio guide for deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
Nearby Attractions: Consider visiting Tiryns, another Mycenaean site, or the charming town of Nafplio.

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The best time to visit the Archaeological Site of Mycenae

The best time to visit the Archaeological Site of Mycenae is during the spring (April to early June) or autumn (September to October). Here’s why:

Spring (April to Early June)

Weather: Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers enhance the beauty of the ancient ruins and surrounding landscapes.
Crowds: Fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season, offering a more serene experience.
Comfort: Ideal for exploring the site without the intense heat of summer.

Autumn (September to October)

Weather: Cooler temperatures make it comfortable for walking around the open-air site.
Crowds: The tourist numbers taper off after the summer, providing a quieter atmosphere.
Light: Autumn sunlight creates a golden hue, perfect for photography.

Tips for Visiting:

Avoid Summer: June to August can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), and the site offers limited shade. It’s also the peak tourist season.
Morning or Late Afternoon Visits: If you visit during warmer months, aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy better lighting.
Bring Essentials: Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and carry water, as the terrain is uneven, and facilities may be limited.