Lion Gate (Greek: Πύλη των Λεόντων) is the popular modern name for the main entrance of what was the Bronze Age citadel of Mycenae in southern Greece. It was erected during the thirteenth century BC, around 1250 BC, in the northwestern side of the acropolis. In modern times, it was named after the relief sculpture of two lionesses in a heraldic pose that stands above the entrance.Put Lion Gate at the forefront of your travel plans using our Mycenae holiday tool.
The gate is the sole surviving monumental piece of Mycenaean sculpture, as well as the largest surviving sculpture in the prehistoric Aegean. It is the only monument of Bronze Age Greece to bear an iconographic motif that survived without being buried underground. It is the only relief image that was described in the literature of classical antiquity, such that it was well known prior to modern archaeology.
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This is the major attraction at old Mycenae, the famous gate with the image on it. Amazing that a civilization from so many centuries BC is present here. We had an amazing afternoon exploring and...
This is the major attraction at old Mycenae, the famous gate with the image on it. Amazing that a civilization from so many centuries BC is present here. We had an amazing afternoon exploring and... more »
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The gate was erected about the same time the tomb was constructed. It is notable for the size of the relief sculpture of the two lionesses. Our guide explained that they were carved from one piece of.... more
The gate was erected about the same time the tomb was constructed. It is notable for the size of the relief sculpture of the two lionesses. Our guide explained that they were carved from one piece of.... more »
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