Mycenean Acropolis of Tiryns

The Mycenaean Acropolis of Tiryns is an archaeological site in the Peloponnese, close to Nafplio and about a 15-minute drive from Mycenae. Its massive Cyclopean walls and remains of an ancient palace and fortress give a sense of the scale of Mycenaean building and defence. The compact site is easy to explore, and a path below the ramparts brings the masonry into view from outside. On-site explanations are limited, so read about Tiryns or bring a map before you arrive.

The walls and ramparts

Tiryns is known for the huge stone blocks used in its defensive walls. The scale is striking from the path outside the ramparts, where you can look up at the fortifications. The site also preserves remains of an ancient palace and fortress, though little of the palace structure remains.

The walls are often called Cyclopean, a name associated with their immense masonry. Tiryns sits lower than many Mycenaean citadels, yet its walls are thought to have been higher than those at Mycenae.

The galleries inside the walls

A corbelled passage runs within the fortifications. Known as the Underground Casement Gallery, it gives you a closer look at how the walls were built and used. Its stone surfaces have been smoothed over time, including by sheep rubbing against them when the site was used as a sheepfold before its excavation.

There is limited interpretation of the ancient remains on site. A little preparation, such as reading about Tiryns and bringing a map, can help you identify the palace remains, galleries and defensive features as you walk.