Attraction Guide: Grave Circle B, Mycenae, Greece

Grave Circle B Guide

Grave Circle B: Unveiling Mycenaean Royalty Guide

Step back in time and explore Grave Circle B, a significant archaeological site located in Mycenae, Greece. This ancient burial ground, predating the more famous Grave Circle A, offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives and deaths of the Mycenaean elite during the Middle Bronze Age (c. 1650-1500 BC). Discover the elaborate burial rituals and the wealth of artifacts that accompanied these powerful individuals in their journey to the afterlife. Grave Circle B was discovered in 1952 by archaeologist Ioannis Papadimitriou. It contains a total of 26 graves, including shaft graves and cist graves, revealing a complex social hierarchy and burial practices. The graves yielded a treasure trove of artifacts, including gold masks, jewelry, weapons, and pottery, providing invaluable insights into Mycenaean culture, art, and technology. These findings predate those of Grave Circle A, offering a deeper understanding of the evolution of Mycenaean civilization. Visitors can walk around the perimeter of Grave Circle B and observe the excavated graves. Informative signs provide details about the individuals buried here and the significance of the artifacts discovered. While you can't enter the graves themselves, the site offers a powerful connection to the past. Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby Mycenae archaeological site, including the Lion Gate and the Treasury of Atreus, to gain a comprehensive understanding of this ancient civilization. While in the region, consider trying traditional Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh seafood at local tavernas.