Mycenaean cemetery of Voudeni

The Mycenaean cemetery of Voudeni is a burial site containing approximately 78 carved tomb chambers spread across a large area at an elevation of 220 meters northeast of Patras. The burial structures are distributed across the terrain and demonstrate the range of burial techniques used during this early period.

Excavations began in 1923 under Nikolaos Kyparissis and uncovered remains dating from approximately 1500 to 1050 BC. The recovered objects such as bronze tools, weapons, jewelry, and pottery reveal the wealth and technical skills of this society.

The tombs display various chamber designs such as circular, square, and horseshoe shapes, revealing how Mycenaean people honored their dead. Walking among these structures gives visitors insight into the burial customs that shaped this ancient society.

The site is located on hilly terrain and requires comfortable footwear for exploring the scattered burial chambers. It helps to familiarize yourself with the layout beforehand, as the area is expansive and offers limited signage on the ground.

The position at the base of Mount Panachaiko provided residents with natural defenses and enabled control over trade routes in the Gulf of Patras. This geographic location made the area a preferred settlement for this early civilization.