Overview
We'll have a lovely visit of ancient Mycenae and Palamidi Castle.
Barry and I recommend brushing up on your Greek mythology before your trip. It's not necessary by any means, but we really enjoyed our guide's explanations and the history of this ancient wonder- especially because we could finally visualize all of these fascinating things we read about back home!
We'll start off our fabulous day with a nice drive across the Argive Plains... through the beautiful orange and lemon groves and past the ancient cities of Tiryns and Argos. We'll then arrive at "well-built Mycenae, rich of gold," as described by Homer in The Odyssey!
Although excavations had originally begun at Mycenae back in 1841, it wasn't until 33 years later that Heinrich Schliemann, an entrepreneur turned archaeologist, unearthed Mycenae's treasures. A controversial figure, Schliemann believed in the accuracy of Homer's epic poems, and to the amazement and dismay of scholars, governments and the world, he was right!
Enter the site via a walkway lined by impenetrable cyclopean walls and through the Lions Gate, where Clytemnestra greeted her husband (Agamemnon) when he returned from Troy.
We'll walk to the first shaft tomb, where Schliemann excavated the famous golden death masks, now on display at the Archaeological Museum in Athens. This site has absolutely magnificent views over the Argive. We'll also visit the eerie Beehive Tomb. Also known as the "Treasury of Atreus", this could be the real tomb of Agamemnon.
Enter the impressive grave through a 10-foot corridor and stand in its cool, dark interior. You'll be amazed by how advanced the Mycenaeans' building skills were.
We'll also take a drive up to Palamidi, a massive fortressed area incredible views of the town, harbor and the Argive Plain. Palamidi was built by Venetians and seized by the Turks. Don't forget to bring your camera!
You may return to the ship via coach or descend by foot the over 850-step staircase that leads back down to the harbor and your ship.
This tour involves considerable walking, up some steep grades.
- We suggest you wear comfortable walking shoes.
- This is a private tour and you will not be combined with other travelers. Make sure to choose the appropriate pricing range.
- Groups of 2 people will be transported in a pre-booked Mercedes taxi. Please note that while the vehicles are used primarily for private tours and transfer services, it is the law for the meter to be on and for the vehicle to have a taxi sign on top. You will not be expected to pay the meter.
- Please note that the Sunday Supplement also applies to the following Public Holidays in 2020: January 1; March 2nd; March 25th, April 17th-19th; May 1st; June 8th; August 15th; October 28th and December 25th and 26th.
- Supplement is per group and not per person.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 12:00 PM, duration: 4 hours We will have you back to the pier by 4pm.
