Lion Gate, Bronze Age entrance gate in Mycenae, Greece.
The Lion Gate serves as the main entrance to the ancient citadel, constructed around 1250 BCE using Cyclopean masonry with enormous limestone blocks fitted together without mortar.
Built during the late Bronze Age when Mycenae dominated the Aegean region, the gate was part of a fortification expansion designed to protect royal tombs and the city.
The relief depicts two lionesses flanking a central column, representing royal authority and divine protection in accordance with Mycenaean and Near Eastern symbolism of kingship and power.
The archaeological site operates from May to late autumn, with access requiring an entrance ticket, and visitors should expect uneven terrain along the cobbled paths leading to the gate.
This structure features the only surviving example of monumental sculpture from the Mycenaean era, making it an exceptional testament to Bronze Age artistry and engineering techniques.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
