Excursion Ancient mycenae tour at Nafplion
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Take a step back in time to the Bronze Age during this captivating, half-day sightseeing excursion to ancient Mycenae.
Nafplion, Argos Plain, Ruins of Mycenae, Guided Walking Tour
Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive across the Argos Plain to the famous citadel of Mycenae, an UNESCO World Heritage site dating to the Bronze Age. The city of Mycenae is located high above the confluence of two boulder-strewn ravines. Upon arrival, discover the city’s history, along with the artefacts unearthed here, during a guided walking tour of the ruins of Mycenae.
Mycenaean Greece, Beehive Tomb
Mycenaean Greece was the last phase of the Bronze Age in ancient Greece, spanning the period from approximately 1750 B.C. to 1050 B.C. It represented the first advanced and distinctively Greek civilisation in mainland Greece with its palatial estates, urban organization, works of art, and writing system. The city was first excavated in 1876 by German archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann, who was obsessed with finding the grave of mythology’s King Agamemnon. Many experts believed he succeeded, as the famed Beehive Tomb visited during your tour is reputedly the final resting-place of the mighty Agamemnon
Guided Walking Tour, Lion Gate, Sculpted Beasts, Acropolis, City Walls, Artefacts
Enter Mycenae by way of the Lion Gate, Europe's oldest piece of monumental statuary, then walk beneath the watchful eyes of two sculpted beasts to reach the Acropolis. Take a guided stroll along ancient city walls that are a mind-boggling eight feet (about 2.4 metres) deep in some places, and said to have been erected by the Cyclops. During your visit, explore a wealth of captivating artefacts that include ivory carvings, many golden ornaments, bronze weapons, jewellery, tools and utensils of gold, silver, and copper, semi-precious stones, alabaster glass, figurines, and household items such as cups and pottery. Following your tour, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.
Points of interests
Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Nafplion, Argos Plain, Ruins of Mycenae, Guided Walking Tour, Lion Gate, Sculpted Beasts, Beehive Tomb, Acropolis, City Walls, Artefacts
Note
Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.56 miles (about one kilometres), at times over uneven and natural surfaces and steep inclines in order to access the site, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, bottled water, and Euros or credit cards for purchases from the ship.