Mycenae, located in the northeastern part of the Peloponnese, is one of Greece’s most significant archaeological sites. Known for its powerful influence during the late Bronze Age, Mycenae was the center of the Mycenaean civilization, which played a key role in shaping ancient Greek culture. Visitors come to explore its impressive ruins and imagine what life was like in this ancient city that dates back over 3,000 years.

One of the first things you'll see when visiting Mycenae is the famous Lions Gate. This massive stone gateway served as the main entrance to the city. Built around 1250 BC, it took it's name from the two lions carved into the stone above the entrance, which are a reminder and symbol of power and strength of ancient Mycenae. Walking through this gate, you can't help but feel the weight of history as you step into a place that was once the hub of one of the most important ancient civilizations.

Mycenae is also home to the royal tombs, where important figures of the Mycenaean period, such as kings and nobles, were buried. The most famous of these is the Treasury of Atreus, also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon. This large beehive tomb is an impressive example of Mycenaean architecture and one of the best-preserved monuments of the time. Inside the tombs, archaeologists have found incredible treasures, including gold masks, weapons, and jewelry, showcasing the wealth and craftsmanship of the Mycenaean people.

In the centre of the city you will find the remains of the palace, which served as the residence of the Mycenaean rulers. Though only the foundations remain, you can still get a sense of how grand the palace must have been. Surrounding the city are the massive Cyclopean walls, built with large limestone boulders. The walls got their name from the legend that they were built by the Cyclopes, mythical giants, because the stones were so large that people believed they were moved by giants.

Mycenae isn’t just important historically, it also has a strong presence in Greek mythology. The city was said to be ruled by King Agamemnon, who led the Greeks in the Trojan War, as told in Homer’s Iliad. Walking around the ruins, it’s easy to imagine the tales of gods, heroes, and battles that are tied to this ancient city. For many, visiting Mycenae is like stepping into the pages of a myth.

While the ancient ruins are the main draw, the area around Mycenae is also worth exploring. The modern village of Mykines is a quiet place where you can relax, grab a meal at a local taverna, and take in the scenic views of the surrounding hills. Nearby, the Archaeological Museum of Mycenae offers a deeper dive into the artifacts found on the site, giving visitors a clearer picture of what life was like during the Mycenaean period.

A visit to Mycenae is a popular trip for a taxi tour in Nafplio, and a journey into one of the most important chapters of ancient Greek history. From its towering walls to its royal tombs, the site gives visitors a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived there thousands of years ago. Whether you're interested in history, mythology, or just want to explore a place with deep cultural roots, Mycenae is a must-see destination in Greece.

Founded, according to Homer's 9th-Century Iliad and Odyssey, by Perseus, son of Danae and Zeus, Mycenae has been inhabited, according to historians, since Neolithic times.

The surviving ruins of Agamemnon's Palace is believed to date to the 14th Century BC and the walls were built from massive stones weighting up to 13 tons.

Take a taxi to Mycenae and see spectacular views over the Argolida from the summit of Mycenae after exploring the ancient site. A little further down you will find the tomb of King Agamemnon where the Golden mask (death mask) was found. The museum has a copy of this mask the original being in the National Archaeological Museum in Athens. The archaeological site is very impressive, as is the museum.

Approx. 40 mins from Nafplion.