Lionsgate Travel

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Panoramic view of Jerusalem showcasing the illuminated Dome of the Rock and the city's skyline at dusk, ideal for religious tours.

Classic 10 Day Holy Land

Tour dates available all year.

Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus: A Journey Through the Holy Land

Embark on a spiritual journey through Israel, where biblical history unfolds at every turn. Led by your pastor, this guided tour will take you through ancient cities, significant religious landmarks, and picturesque landscapes, revealing the rich heritage of the Christian faith. From the bustling city of Tel Aviv to the serene shores of Galilee, and from the vibrant streets of Jerusalem to the depths of the Dead Sea, you will trace the footsteps of Jesus, experience sacred moments, and gain a deeper understanding of biblical history.

Trip Highlights

  • Explore the historical marvels of Caesarea and its impressive Roman-era ruins.
  • Reflect on biblical prophecy at Megiddo, known for its association with the Armageddon.
  • Witness a sunrise over the Sea of Galilee and visit Capernaum, where Jesus preached.
  • Visit Nazareth, the hometown of Jesus, and see the Church of the Annunciation.
  • Walk through the vibrant streets of Jerusalem, experiencing iconic sites like the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.
  • Journey to the ancient fortress of Masada and enjoy the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea.
  • Discover Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, and marvel at the Church of the Nativity.
  • Enjoy a serene day of reflection, revisiting your favorite sites or simply relaxing in Jerusalem.

Begin your journey with an overnight flight to Tel Aviv. Dinner and breakfast will be served in-flight as you head toward the land of the Bible.

lion gate travel

After landing in Tel Aviv, we’ll be greeted by our Lionsgate Travel representative and guided to our hotel. After a brief respite, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner and a restful night.

lion gate travel

After breakfast, we’ll start the journey north along the Mediterranean coast to Caesarea, once the capital of Roman Judea. Here, we’ll explore the amphitheater, aqueduct, and ancient ruins. Continuing through Haifa, we’ll marvel at the stunning Bahá’í Gardens before heading to Megiddo, the site of Armageddon. A drive through the Jezreel Valley brings us to the foot of Mt. Carmel, where Elijah triumphed over the prophets of Baal. Traveling further east, we’ll reach Mt. Tabor and Deboriya before arriving in Tiberias, where our hotel awaits by the Sea of Galilee.

lion gate travel

At dawn, we’ll gather by the Sea of Galilee for a special sunrise service. A boat will carry us across the Sea to Capernaum, where Jesus walked and preached. After visiting the ruins of the ancient synagogue, we’ll head to the Mount of Beatitudes, believed to be the site of the Sermon on the Mount. At Tabgha, we’ll reflect on the miracle of the multiplication of loaves and fishes. Then, we’ll journey to Caesarea Philippi, where Peter confessed Jesus as the Messiah. Before returning to Tiberias, we’ll visit the Jordan River for an optional baptismal service.

lion gate travel

Departing early, we’ll make our way to Cana and Nazareth, where we’ll visit the Church of the Annunciation and Mary’s Fountain. Journeying south, we’ll uncover the Roman ruins of Beth-shean before heading through the Jordan Valley to Jericho, the city whose walls fell. With anticipation, we’ll reach Jerusalem in the evening, where we’ll settle into our hotel for dinner and overnight.

lion gate travel

We start the day on the Mount of Olives, taking in the panoramic view of Jerusalem. The day will be filled with exploration of sacred sites: the Garden of Gethsemane, the Church of All Nations, and Mt. Zion with its biblical landmarks. New Jerusalem will reveal its treasures as we visit Hebrew University and the Shrine of the Book. We’ll pay our respects at Yad Vashem before returning to the hotel for dinner.

lion gate travel

Our journey takes us south to the Dead Sea, where we’ll ascend to the fortress of Masada by cable car. After exploring the ruins, we’ll dip into the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea. Qumran, home to the Dead Sea Scrolls, will reveal its ancient secrets before we return to Jerusalem via the Jericho Road.

lion gate travel

We’ll walk the Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher before visiting the Garden Tomb. In Bethlehem, we’ll witness the birthplace of Jesus at the Church of the Nativity and visit Shepherds’ Fields. Returning to Jerusalem, we’ll pass Rachel’s Tomb before a final dinner and overnight.

lion gate travel

This day is ours to explore Jerusalem on our own, whether revisiting favorite sites, shopping, or simply enjoying the vibrant local atmosphere. We’ll reunite in the evening for a farewell dinner.

lion gate travel

As we bid farewell to the Holy Land, we’ll return to Ben Gurion Airport for our flight home, taking with us memories of this profound journey.

lion gate travel

Tour Inclusions

  • Roundtrip Flights: International flights to and from your destination.
  • Transfers & Porterage: Comprehensive transfer services between airports and hotels, including porter assistance.
  • Expert Local Guide: Full services of an experienced, government-licensed private tour guide.
  • Deluxe Transportation: Touring by deluxe, climate-controlled coach.
  • Accommodation: First-class hotels with double occupancy.
  • Dining: Daily full Israeli breakfast and sit-down dinner.
  • Sightseeing: Extensive sightseeing in Caesarea, Galilee, Tiberias, Nazareth, Jerusalem, Megiddo, Mt. Carmel, and more.
  • Admission Fees: Entrance to all sites listed in the itinerary.
  • Unique Experiences:
  • Swim in the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea.
  • Enjoy a boat ride across the serene Sea of Galilee.
  • Explore the Qumran Caves, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered.
  • Option for a baptismal service in the Jordan River.
  • Ascend Masada via a scenic cable car ride.
  • Visit the tranquil Garden Tomb.
  • Travel Documents: Comprehensive travel documents provided by Lionsgate Travel prior to departure.

Cost Excludes

  • Daily Lunch
  • Trip Insurance

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  • Accomodation 4 Star Hotels
  • Sites Admission Fee All Entrances Included
  • Arrival City Tel Aviv
  • Free Cancellation Up to 120 Days From Departure
  • Language English or Spanish
  • Tour Availability All Year

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Adventure Family Travel - Wandering Wagars

A Family Trip To The Mycenae Lion Gate At The Archeaological Site Of Mycenae

Discover the ancient marvels of the Mycenae Lion Gate and the ruins of Mycenae on a family adventure from Athens to Nafplio. Uncover the rich history of the Mycenaean civilization, explore the legendary site that inspired the tales of the Trojan War, and ignite your kids’ imaginations with Greek mythology.

A multi-generational travel family poses in front of the Mycenae Lion Gate in Greece

After leaving Athens, my family journeyed west. Our two days in Athens and side-trip to the Temple of Poseidon had been an awe-inspiring glimpse into the history of Greece . But we wanted to dive even further back in time,

We were heading from Athens to the port town of Nafplio via the Corinth Canal, but on our way, we had a very important stop to make. A rock-strewn hill that launched one of the greatest tales of the Classical World and is now one of the coolest places for families to visit in Greece .

This hill and the Mycenae civilization that it spawned was built about a thousand years before the Acropolis in Athens. This Mycenae civilization lasted for about four hundred years, between the 16th and the 12th centuries BCE, and grew to be one of the most powerful empires of its time.

Mycenae was the center of that culture, and it was here that the orders went out to launch the infamous attack on Troy that set the stage for the Trojan War.

After all, it was Greek mythology that got our kids excited about our road trip through the mainland. And this city played a big part in Homer’s telling of the Iliad . So, let’s see how deep we can take this journey.

Why Did We Visit Mycenae?

A preteen boy makes a dramatic pose while exploring the Mycenae ruins in Greece.

The boys, Cohen and Dylan, spent most of the previous year obsessed with the storyline of Percy Jackson and the Olympians. This book series about demi-God teens living in a modern world where Greek mythology is very much a part of everyday life had them begging Christina and me to bring them to Greece for some adventure.

Anyone who has followed our family travels in the past knows that Christina and I never shirk a chance to combine education with adventure, so we got to planning an unbelievable week-long road trip through mainland Greece that would let us experience some of the country’s most beautiful places to visit and learn a LOT about Greek history along the way.

What’s wild about Mycenae is that it was actually believed to be a FICTIONAL town that had been made up by Homer for his legendary tale. That was until Greek archaeologist Kyriakos Pittakis cleared the Mycenae Lion Gate in 1841. The rest of the excavations of the city didn’t occur until 1874!

The Coolest Things Saw During Our Visit To The Mycenae Lion Gate

The ancient city of Mycenae is located up a long, gravel road at the top of the Peloponnese peninsula. We were fresh from the road, having stopped earlier at the Corinth Canal for some kebabs and scenic views.

But after getting out, the first thing that we all had to experience were the washrooms. And I don’t mean Agamamnon’s Chamber Pot, which IS one of the most unique things to see in Mycenae, but actual modern flush toilets, which thankfully were available to us visitors.

The Lion Gate at Mycenae

A young boy takes a photo of the Lion Gate in Mycenae

After all six of us were relieved from the long drive, we wanted to kick off our travels to Mycenae with a stop at the archeological site’s most famous attraction, the Lion Gate. And it did not disappoint.

The Lion Gate is the main entrance to the fortified walls of the city of Mycenae. It’s built with massive stones that frame a 10-foot wide and 10-foot high entrance topped by a triangular sculpture featuring two majestic lions with their feet resting on an altar, looking up at a towering column.

It’s believed that the lions originally had metal heads, but these were stolen from the site a long time ago.

The gate is incredibly impressive, especially when we remember that it is more than 3,400 years old. In the afternoon sun, it was beautiful to see how the inside of the gateway had a golden glow from the sun. Everyone in our family wanted their own photo with this beautiful glowing entrance in the background, but shockingly, most other visitors just strolled past the Lion Gate like it was a footnote.

Cyclopean Walls

An arched window in the Cyclopean Walls at Mycenae, Greece

One of the most awe-inspiring things to see at the Mycenae ruins was a roughly-placed line of huge limestone boulders. These stones are part of a massive series of fortified walls known as the Cyclopean Walls. The stones are so big that, in ancient times, many people believed that they could have only been placed there by the mighty Cyclops.

As we walked along the walls, the boys spent time debating how it would have been possible to get these immense stones into place over three thousand years ago. They’ve seen some pretty impressive ancient structures, including the 12,000-year-old Gobekli Tepe in Turkey and the gorgeous ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru, and things like this still blow their minds.

Palatial Complex

A young boy takes a selfie at an overlook in the Mycenae Palatial Complex

At the top of the ruins of Mycenae is where the Palace of Mycenae once stood. This would have been a luxurious homestead at one point, and the royalty of Mycenae would have shown off all of their best possessions.

While almost all of that is now gone, there is one thing that can never be stolen from the palace.

It’s view!

This was our favorite viewpoint in all of Mycenae. It feels like you can see everything from up here. Dylan even stopped to take his first selfie from the overlook!

Tomb of Clytmnestra

A woman holding a travel guide walks out of the Tomb of Clytemnestra in Mycenae

Hidden from view beneath a small hill, we almost missed the Tomb of Clytmnestra when we were visiting Mycenae and the Lion Gate. But while I was taking the boys for their second bathroom break during our exploration, Christina came running up to us with news of another exciting Mycenae attraction that we needed to see.

Supported by a V-shaped set of stone walls, the entrance to the Tomb of Clytmnestra doesn’t reveal just how impressive the inside is. But as we walked through the entrance, supported by a set of massive stones, we could see why this massive vaulted room was deemed appropriate for a queen and all of her jewelry.

Clytmnestra was the wife of the famed Agamemnon and queen of Mycenae during the years of the Trojan War. Agamemnon had callously sacrificed Clytmnestra’s daughter, Ifigeneia. He had brought Ifigenia to him under the guise of offering her as a wife to Achilles. Instead, he sacrificed her to the goddess Artemis , who he believed was preventing the wind from filling the sails of the Greek ships.

When Agamemnon returned, Clytmnestra took her revenge and killed her husband. Their son. Orestes killed his mother in revenge for his father’s death, leading to one of the most important Greek tragedies in history.

Walking around inside, we all felt tiny in comparison to the towering ceilings, And we went around to different spots in the room to test out what our echoes sounded like throughout the tomb.

Grave Circles

Grave Circle A at the ruins of Mycenae

The Mycenaen culture buried their dead outside of the city walls. And if you want to see how they did this, you can check out the Mycenaean grave circles just a short walk from the Lion Gate.

Marked on the Mycenae map as “Grave Circles A and B, these structures made for a pretty unique stop in the city.

Grave Circle A was where the city’s elite were buried. It includes six tombs set aside for members of the wealthiest families. Some of the items found in the graves, such as masks, weapons, and jewelry, are on display in the Mycenae Archeological Museum.

Grave Circle B is much larger. There are 26 tombs here, and each tomb would have held several bodies. There were a few artifacts found in this grave as well, but because the interred weren’t as wealthy, they aren’t as spectacular as those found in Grave Circle A.

Mycenae Archeological Museum

If you really want to dive into the history of Mycenae and the Lion Gate, you’ll want to check out the Archeological Museum of Mycenae. This three-story building is located near the entrance to the ruins and houses findings from excavations made throughout the ruins of Mycenae.

The museum follows the entire 2,800-year history of Mycenae from the Copper Age, around 3,000 BCE, up until Hellenistic time during the second century BCE. One of the museum’s coolest sections showcases some of the jewelry and weapons found in Mycenae. Another can’t-miss exhibit is the Golden Mask of Agamemnon, a golden funerary mask. The one on display at the Mycenae Archeological Site is a copy. The original is on display at the National Archeological Museum in Athens.

Tomb Of Agamemnon | Mycenae Atreus Treasury

Two boys walk inside the Tomb of Agamemnon in Mycenae, Greece

Many visitors to Mycenae and the Lion Gate miss the Mycenae Atreus Treasury when they’re exploring the grounds. Also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon, this ancient vault lies outside of the main archeological site of Mycenae. But it’s easily walkable or accessible via a short drive. The tomb was a quick stop for us as we left Mycenae en route to the ruins of Epidaurus .

The Treasury of Atreus is believed to be the final resting place of the famed Greek leader or his father, Atreus. It’s believed to have been built around 1,250 BCE and was once richly decorated in alabaster and red porphyry, although very little of that is still visible.

The experience is very similar to that of the Tomb of Clytmnestra, but it’s a little bit smaller.

Visiting Mycenae With Kids

A father and son smile for the camera while exploring the Mycenae ruins

My kids loved their visit to Mycenae. At the time of our family travels in Greece , Dylan was nine, and Cohen was celebrating his twelfth birthday. We were all in awe of the history and the beautiful landscapes that surround the Lion Gate and the ruins of Mycenae.

In combination with the Archeological Museum of Mycenae, there is a lot to learn here, and if your kids have any interest in Greek mythology and history, it’s pretty cool to be in a place where so many familiar names are mentioned.

How To Get To Mycenae

If you’d like to experience the Mycenae Lion Gate for yourself, there are a few options to get there. The first and easiest would be to join a tour from Athens or Nafplio. However, if you’re like us and you’re traveling through Greece on a DIY adventure, I’d recommend driving.

Mycenae By Car

Renting a car   is the most popular option , especially if you plan to explore Greece at your own leisure. We had a small van that made a journey through Greece with six people very comfortable.

Getting to Mycenae from Athens is a straightforward drive. You’ll want to take Highway 8 over the Corinth Canal (stop and take a look at this marvel of engineering while you’re at it). From there, it’s about 15 miles (24 kilometers) toward Nafplio . Then, follow the signs toward Mycenae. The entire drive is about two hours.

By Public Transportation

There are regular buses that run between Athens and Nafplio, which include a stop near Mycenae. The bus stop is on Highway 8 near the exit to Mycenae. From there, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the archeological site.

Places To Visit Near Mycenae

The Theater of Epidaurus from above

If you’re making a day trip from Athens or looking to extend your travels through the region further, there are a lot of things to see nearby.

For those seeking a hassle-free way to experience all these wonders in a single day, consider joining a guided tour like this one from Viator .

Nafplio was where my family spent the night after visiting Epidaurus and Mycenae. It’s a very cool city that has an atmosphere that combines Venetian and Medieval vibes. The city is topped by the Palamidi Fortress, and offshore of this coastal town is the island fortress of Bourtzi.

There’s great food and absolutely adorable hotels in the town. If you’re staying in Nafplio and want a more intimate experience, consider booking a private tour of Myce n ae and Epidaurus . You can read about our time in Nafplio here .

One of the most famous theaters in Greece lies in the ruins of Ancient Epidaurus. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was famous for its incredible acoustics, and it’s still used for performances to this day. We made the 34-mile (55 km) drive to Epidaurus after exploring Mycenae.

You can read about our visit to the birthplace of modern medicine right here .

The city of Corinth was once one of the most important and powerful urban centers in the world. The remains of this city showcase some of the best examples of Roman architecture in the country.

Expand Your Visit Even Further

If you’re looking for an even more epic journey through the heart of ancient Greece, consider this multi-day tour that includes Mycenae along with other must-see destinations. These were, quite honestly, some of the most incredible places that we visited on our road trip through mainland Greece.

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Visiting the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounio, Greece at sunset

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A Guide to Visiting the Mycenae Archaeological Site

The Mycenae Lion Gate is the only Bronze Age monument still surviving in Greece and it stands at the entrance to the greatest citadel of the Ancient Mycenaens. Here’s everything you need to know abou t how and why to visit, what to see, and where to stay. See the Grave Circles, the Treasury of Atreus (the Tomb of Agamemnon), and the spectacular Lion Gate, only 120 kilometers from Athens and a stone’s throw from lovely Nafplio.

How to Avoid the Crowds at the Mycenae Archaeological Site

There is a well-worn path that tour buses take from Athens for day trips into the Peloponnese. After stopping at the Corinth Canal and Ancient Corinth, the convoys roll on to Mycenae.

Mycenae Acropolis artisans houses

My advice is to stay in Nafplio and get to the site as it opens. Leave the Museum to last and head straight into the complex.

On your way back down from the site, visit the Museum and the tholos and area closest to the entrance.

The tour buses don’t give the tourists enough time to walk down to these tombs and you’ll see them looking down at you as you (often) have the whole place to yourself.

Once you’ve finished these sections, head out of the gate to the Treasury of Atreus.

How to Get to Ancient Mycenae

The archaeological site of ancient Mycenae is located in the northeast of the Peloponnese Peninsula in southern Greece, between the cities of Argos and Corinth.

Mycenae is only 120 km from Athens, less than an hour and a half to drive across the Isthmus of Corinth (the neck of land that joins the Peloponnese to mainland Greece).

Nafplio Old town from the Fort, Greece

You can also get to Mycenae via coach or even train, though this can take a little longer and you might need a taxi on the journey’s final stretch.

Mycenae is very close to the incredible coastal town of Nafplio, a whole archaeological destination in its own right! Here you can have wonderful sea views, only a 20-minute drive from Mycenae.

This article may contain compensated links. Please read the disclaimer for more info.

Archaeological Site of Mycenae: E-Ticket With Audio Tour

I’ve used this provider – Clio Muse Tours a lot – you can get hold of them by phone at any time! Don’t make the mistake of queueing for a ticket with busloads of people.

From Athens: Bus Trip to Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio

The most popular bus trip day tour from Athens, booked dozens of times a day throughout the year. It includes 2 hours for you to explore Mycenae.

Athens: Peloponnese Highlights Day Trip and V.R. Audio Guide

Stop at Corinth Canal, Mycenae, Nafplio, and Epidaurus. You get a V.R. audio guide and 2.5 hours to discover Mycenae.

From Athens: Mycenae and Epidaurus Full-Day Tour

Also super-popular, I like that this day trip includes an 80-minute guided tour of Mycenae.

The Myceneans and Mycenean Civilization

Mycenae is not just an archaeological site: it has also given its name to one of Greece’s most important civilizations.

Entrance to the Treasury of Atreus, Mycenae, Greece

Mycenean society was hierarchical and patriarchal, dominated by a warrior elite, and organized in a network of city-states based around hilltop palaces.

Supplanting their predecessors, the pre-Greek Minoans of Crete, around 1600BCE (BC), the Mycenean kings dominated modern-day Greece for around five hundred years, making key advancements and innovations before falling into decline during the Bronze Age collapse of 1100BCE (BC).

When the Ancient Greeks wanted to create myths and legends, they drew upon their ‘Ancients’ – the Myceneans. The eventual collapse of the wealthy Mycenean culture ushered in the Greek Dark Age.

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Mycenean Culture

The Myceneans left such a great stamp on this period, that the last stage of the Hellenic Bronze Age is now known today as the Mycenean Age .

Many of Greek mythology’s most enduring stories, including Homer’s Iliad, have their roots in this time.

Fragment of a wall painting found at Ancient Mycenae that depicts lion-headed demons carrying their prey on a pole, National Archaeological Museum, Greece

It was the Mycenaeans who developed (with help from the Minoans) the first Indo-European writing system, Linear B .

Mycenae was firmly integrated into the Mediterranean’s Bronze Age world and was in frequent contact with great powers such as Ancient Egypt and the Hittite Empire.

Mycenaean Clay Tablets with Linear B Writing, National Archaeological Museum, Greece

Mycenean goods, particularly their ornate bronze metalwork, have been found as far away as Georgia on the Black Sea and Cornwall in England, while their pottery was prized across the region for its colorful and stylish design.

Mycenaen Art, especially pots, urns, and other ceramics frequently depicted the warrior culture that was so much a part of everyday life.

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The Myceneans were great empire builders, warriors, and mercenaries, and created so much wealth that the society could afford for the arts to flourish.

Today, however, the Mycenaeans are best known for their impressive, fortified palaces, of which the Archaeological Site of Mycenae is the greatest example.

The Mycenae Archaeological Site

The area around Mycenae has been occupied since at least 5000 BCE (BC), but it is thought that the construction of the great citadel we can see today only began around 1350BCE (BC).

Map of Ancient Mycenae (1600 - 1100 BCE), Greece

The rise of the city of Mycenae mirrored the rise of Mycenean power, and at its peak, the site had grown to become the focal point of the Hellenic world.

But Mycenae’s power could not last forever. In around 1200BCE (BC) the city was sacked during the Bronze Age collapse by invading Dorians, migrating Sea Peoples’, or perhaps the city’s own exploited laboring classes.

Grave Circle A, Mycenae

Mycenae’s ruins had become little more than a tourist attraction by the Roman period and fell into total obscurity during the Dark Ages.

The site was only rediscovered in 1700 by the Venetians, who identified it via Roman descriptions of its iconic Lion Gate .

Excavations have been ongoing at Mycenae since 1841 at which point the Lion Gate was reconstructed, with key work on the site later undertaken by the rediscoverer of Tro y , Heinrich Schliemann.

Citadel of Mycenae

At the center of the archaeological site is its imposing citadel. In around 1350 BCE the previously humble settlement at Mycenae was fortified with “Cyclopean walls “, later thought to have been built by the enormous Cyclops of Greek legend.

North Gate Entrance to the Citadel of Mycenae, Greece

Like nearby Tiryns , Cyclopean walls were used to construct wide and tall fortifications. The stones used in these walls are so large that it was thought only the mighty Cyclops could have moved them into place.

 Entrance to the Tholos Tomb of Clytemnestra

Unlike their Minoan predecessors, Mycenean settlements are known for their focus on the military , and Mycenae was first and foremost to be a strong point, commanding this strategic area around the entrance to the Peloponnese.

That said, the citadel was hardly Spartan. A succession of lavish palaces, tombs of kings, and sacred monuments were built within Mycenae’s walls over the ensuing centuries.

After all, the city of Mycenae was an acropolis, a fortified upper town that was home only to the elite and a testament to their power. Commoners lived outside the protection of the walls on the slopes below the hill.

The Lions Gate at Mycenae

The impressive Lion Gate marks the main entrance of the Bronze Age Citadel of Mycenae. It has stood guard since its construction in the 13 th Century BC (BCE).

It is the only monument of Bronze Age Greece to survive intact, with its iconographic motif still visible today.

Lion Gate at Mycenae, Greece

Situated at the northwest side of the Acropolis, this monumental piece of Mycenaean sculpture is the largest sculpture in the prehistoric Aegean, standing three meters wide and three meters high at the threshold.

The Lion Gate gets its name from the relief sculpture carved into the relieving triangle above the gate’s lintel.

On this great slab, two lions or lionesses sit facing a central pillar atop an altar. Unfortunately, the heads of the lion statues have been removed.

Entrance Gate holes in the Lion Gate, Ancient Mycenae

The relief has stimulated much debate among archaeologists, who still debate the sex of the lions (or lionesses) or whether they were indeed sphinxes. 

The presence of the altar and the single column in between the lions may allude to a ceremonial gateway known as a Propylaea, with the lions themselves acting as Mycenae’s sanctified guardians.

The Graves of Mycenae

Prominent at Mycenae is a series of graves that are open to the public. Most famous are the grave circles, a series of mostly shaft graves buried deep into the ground.

This grave design was later abandoned in favor of the tholos design, best embodied in the Treasury of Atreus .

Grave Circle A

Funeral Mask of Agamemnon, National Archaeological Museum, Athens, Greece

The first circle of graves was discovered by Heinrich Schliemann, and although probably a continuation of Grave Circle B, it is now known as Grave Circle A.

Dating back to 1600BCE (BC), Grave Circle A contains six shaft graves in which rested the bodies of nineteen royals.

Grave Circle A is immediately to your right after the Lion's Gate

It was here that Schliemann found his famous “Mask of Agamemnon” , a golden face mask over the body of a man that the German archaeologist connected to the mythic hero of the Trojan War.

Grave Circle B

Built up to a century before Grave Circle A, Grave Circle B is situated outside the acropolis walls of Mycenae. You’ll see it after you pass the entrance to the site, on your right.

Grave Circle B, Ancient Mycenae

This Grave Cicle comprises twenty-six shaft and more primitive cist graves and contained twenty-four aristocratic bodies.

Finds from grave Circle B, Ancient Mycenae, National Archaeological Museum, Greece

Archaeologists have used Grave Circle B to trace the changes in Mycenean society, noting that later graves contained richer and more diverse goods, with women seeming to be buried with higher status.

Museum of Mycenae

The Museum is on your left as you walk the main path to the Lion Gate entrance to the citadel.

Grave Circle B outside the citadel walls

The best parts of the Mycenaen hoard are found in the National Archaeological Museum in Athens, but there are some lovely female figurines in the museum that are worth seeing.

Treasury of Atreus (the Tomb of Agamemnon)

After you leave the main Mycenae archaeological site, you’ll see the tour buses lined up a little way down the main road – this is where you’ll find the Treasury of Atreus.

Also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon , the Treasury of Atreus was built around 1250 BCE (BC), well after the older Grave Circles and at the height of Mycenean power.

Tomb of Agamemnon, Ancient Mycenae, Greece

The Treasury of Atreus is a tholos or beehive tomb, a design that became popular in the late Mycenean period.

With its long sloping entrance and huge domed interior, the Treasury of Atreus is magnificent to behold millennia later.

And although just one of nine of its kind at Mycenae, the grandeur of this structure dwarfs all the others. So don’t miss it!

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5900 Canoga Ave

Woodland Hills, CA 91367

Woodland Hills

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About the Business

For over 20 years, Lions Gate Travel has helped thousands of Christians and their churches experience the wonders of the Holy Land. Nearly everyone we have worked with has come back to us again and again - we like to think it's because we take all of the stress out of travel. From flight seats to restaurant tips, Lions Gate Travel thinks of everything so you don't have to! And with our unbeatable prices and special offers (book 5 travelers and 1 goes free, church fundraising opportunities, etc...) it's no wonder that Lions Gate Travel is the first and last place to look to create a church tour! …

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Photo of James H.

I am from the incredibly competitive east coast Miami to be specific m y first wife was not only beautiful but she was a brilliant trial attorney and I credit her with any legalese I learned. You cannot help but learn when you are around brilliant minds. As one who prides myself on the ability to read people and events this firm stands out . No matter what your dealing with Call Lions Gate tell them Jimmy Hawkins sent you The President of the NAPSR Racing Circuit. The X-Calibur is Patent Pending Please go to Your ube

My lovely wife Brenda Hennessy founder NAPSR Racing

My lovely wife Brenda Hennessy founder NAPSR Racing

Photo of Maryse B.

The Lionsgate Travel agency is a fraud. My Church congregation booked a trip to Israel in November-2023 for this April 2024. As we all know that, there is War in Israel and entire region which is dangerous and not safe for travelers & tourism. Nonetheless, Lionsgate is REFUSING to refund the congregation their money. The church congregation are disappointed and we are demanding a full refund or credit.

Photo of Amanda R.

Just got Back from My First Israel Trip Organized by Lions Gate Travel.. from an Evangélical Church I had a Pleasant Tour , The first hotel was very cheap looking Food Fantastic , and last hotel Luxury Hotel food ahhh ok ? Ups and down But as far as Tour Guides they're where in total 4 out of the 9 day Tour they where all Fantatic Lions Gate Travel Organized Every Detail .. overall had a Pleasant Experience. Would recommend Them . Annat is Great ,she is the Person who organizes Trips with Them . Have Many Memories from My Israel Trip that I will never forget .

Photo of Reif S.

Our church had taken quite a few tours with other providers, but I doubt we will be going back to them after traveling with Lions Gate. Anat is incredible and was so helpful through the whole process. I believe one thing that really sets this company apart from the others is how easy they made our trip. Everything was taken care of and nothing was forgotten. The guides were incredible and we felt safe and taken care of the entire time we were in Israel. I'd recommend these guys to anyone and any church looking to grow their faith.

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COMMENTS

  1. Explore the Holy Land: Lionsgate Travel Tours - Lionsgate Travel

    Discover Lionsgate Travel, renowned for expertly curated group tours across Europe, the Holy Land, and beyond. Specializing in business, education, culture, and faith since 1991, we create journeys that inspire and connect.

  2. Classic 10 Day Holy Land - Lionsgate Travel

    Unforgettable 11-day journey with Lionsgate Travel through the historic landscapes of Egypt and the Holy Land. From the majestic Pyramids of Giza to the sacred sites of Jerusalem, this tour offers a unique blend of cultural exploration and spiritual enrichment.

  3. A Family Trip To The Mycenae Lion Gate At The Archeaological ...

    Discover the ancient marvels of the Mycenae Lion Gate and the ruins of Mycenae on a family adventure from Athens to Nafplio. Uncover the rich history of the Mycenaean civilization, explore the legendary site that inspired the tales of the Trojan War, and ignite your kids’ imaginations with Greek mythology.

  4. A Guide to Visiting the Mycenae Archaeological Site

    The Lion Gate is the only Bronze Age monument to survive in Greece and stands at the entrance to the great citadel of Ancient Mycenae. Here's everything you need to know about how and why to visit, what to see, and where to stay.

  5. LIONS GATE TRAVEL - Updated September 2024 - Yelp

    Lions Gate Travel. 4.0 (4 reviews) Unclaimed. Travel Services. Closed 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. See hours. See all 11 photos.

  6. The Lion Gate Tourism (Bhaktapur) (2024) - A Complete Travel ...

    The Lion Gate is a historic and cultural landmark located in Bhaktapur, Nepal. This magnificent gate, adorned with the stone statues of lions on either side, is one of the key entrances to the Bhaktapur Durbar Square.