Argolis offers different ways to explore its past: the massive fortifications of Mycenae and Tiryns take centre stage, while Franchthi Cave preserves traces of human activity from a much earlier period. There are also theatres with ancient performances and a beach with shallow water. This gives you a range of themes to explore on a trip to the region—from archaeological architecture to coastal scenery.
Mycenae, Tiryns and Midea
The citadel of Mycenae preserves massive defensive walls, corbel-vaulted tombs and the Lion Gate. These structures offer different insights into the site: its defining features include both defensive walls and tombs, as well as the striking gate.
Tiryns adds another perspective, with a Mycenaean fortification enclosing a citadel with a perimeter of approximately 750 metres. The walls are up to 8 metres thick and 13 metres high. This brings two different measures together: the approximate perimeter of the citadel and the maximum dimensions of its walls.
The acropolis of Midea was one of the three most important Mycenaean centres in Argolis, along with Mycenae and Tiryns. It lies approximately halfway between Mycenae and Tiryns. Midea therefore offers a point of reference of its own if you want to consider these three centres as a connected historical focus.
The Mycenae and Tiryns site includes an extensive network of visitor paths, stops and information materials. The site also includes an archaeological museum whose collection highlights the Mycenaean period in particular. On-site orientation and the museum collection thus complement the view of the fortifications.
Other Archaeological Layers
The Mycenaean bridge of Kazarma dates from around 1300 BC and was part of an organised road network connecting Mycenae and Tiryns with Epidaurus. It is still used by the local population. The bridge thus brings together its historical role in the road network and its continued local use.
Franchthi Cave in the southeast of Argolis takes you further back in time: it contains traces of human activity dating to around 28,000 BC. To reach it, leave your car and walk for about ten minutes along an unpaved path. Unlike walls, gates and bridges, the interest here lies in very early traces of human presence.
Epidaurus: Landscape, Architecture and Performances
The Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus includes ancient monuments on two terraces, surrounded by preserved natural landscape. The theatre is known for its perfect architectural proportions and exemplary acoustics. It is still used for performances of ancient dramas; an annual festival has been held there since 1955. If attending a performance is important to your trip, check the specific event dates in advance.
Argos and Nafplio
In ancient times, the agora in Argos was the centre of public life. The ancient theatre offers approximately 20,000 seats and is one of the largest ancient theatres in Greece. Various cultural events are occasionally held there. The agora points to its former role as the centre of public life, while the theatre’s many seats give a sense of its scale.
In Nafplio, Fort Palamidi is the city’s most significant structure from the period of the second Venetian occupation. Bourtzi is an island fortress in Nafplio harbour. The Arvanitia route offers a different perspective: it connects Arvanitia Beach with Karathona Beach.
Tolo Beach
At Tolo Beach, you can leave behind archaeological sites and urban culture for a coastal landscape. The beach has fine sand, a sandy seabed and shallow water; it is considered suitable for children and families. If you are looking for a hotel in Argolis, you can first weigh up your travel interests: archaeological architecture and theatres, or fine sand and shallow water at Tolo Beach.
Discover more destinations: Ermioni, Tolón, Árgos, Epidavros, Míloi, Nea Tiryntha, Kiveri, Kranidi, Asini, Kantia, Porto Cheli, Ligourión, Kanapitsa, Thermisia, Aghios Emilianos, Agia Triada, Adami, Argolis, Akti Idras, Nea Kios, Paralia Irion, Pigadia, Ermionida, Aria, Agios Adrianos, Ermioni, Vivari, Nea Epidavros, Drepano, Epidavros, Nafplion.
For the broader travel overview: Peloponnese.
