Venue 11: Mycenae Archeological Site & Museum
Mycenae is a famous ancient city on the Greek Peloponnese peninsula and was an important center of Mycenaean culture. The mighty citadel walls are particularly impressive, constructed of enormous, carefully stacked stones, hence their name "Cyclopean Walls." A well-known work of art in the city is the Lion Gate, whose entrance is adorned with a relief of two lions. The intricately constructed tholos tombs, such as the so-called Treasury of Atreus, also demonstrate the exceptional skills of Mycenaean builders.
Excavations have also unearthed golden masks, jewelry, vessels, and weapons, providing insight into the art and wealth of that era. Textiles also played a vital role: The Mycenaeans produced elaborate fabrics, dyed them, and used them for clothing and other purposes. Although the fabrics themselves have survived only slightly, spindle whorls and clay tablets from the Mycenaean period demonstrate that textile production and processing were well-organized.
For art enthusiasts, Mycenae is particularly exciting because architecture, sculpture, and craftsmanship combine to offer an insight into the culture of the early Greek world.
