Greek Geography > Argolis Plain

Argolis Plain

Background

The Argolis Plain, located in the northeastern part of the Peloponnesian Peninsula in Greece, is a region of great historical significance in ancient Greek history. It is surrounded by mountains and has fertile land that made it an ideal location for the development of several important ancient cities. Here are some key aspects of the Argolis Plain in relation to ancient Greek history:

Geographic Context

1. Location: The Argolis Plain is situated in the region of Argolis, bounded by the Gulf of Argolis to the east and surrounded by mountain ranges such as the Korthio and Arachnaio mountains.

2. Fertility: The plain is known for its fertile soil, which supported agriculture and contributed to the prosperity of the region. The cultivation of grains, olives, and grapes was common, and the agricultural surplus helped sustain large urban populations.

Key Ancient Cities and Sites

1. Mycenae: One of the most important cities in ancient Greece, Mycenae was located on the western edge of the Argolis Plain. It was the center of the Mycenaean civilization (c. 1600-1100 BCE) and is famous for its monumental architecture, including the Lion Gate and the tholos tombs. Mycenae was a powerful city-state that played a central role in Greek mythology and the Trojan War narrative.

2. Argos: Located near the center of the plain, Argos is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Greece. In ancient times, it was a major political and military power, often rivaling Sparta. Argos was known for its contributions to art, culture, and the military innovations attributed to its king Pheidon.

3. Tiryns: Situated near the coast, Tiryns is another significant archaeological site on the Argolis Plain. It is known for its massive cyclopean walls and palace complex. Tiryns was an important Mycenaean city and played a crucial role in regional politics and trade.

4. Nemea: Located in the northern part of Argolis, Nemea was famous for its sanctuary of Zeus and the Nemean Games, one of the major Panhellenic athletic festivals in ancient Greece.

Historical Significance

1. Mycenaean Civilization: The Argolis Plain was a core area of the Mycenaean civilization, which dominated the Greek mainland during the late Bronze Age. The region's cities, particularly Mycenae and Tiryns, were centers of political power, economic activity, and cultural development.

2. Dorian Invasion: In the late Bronze Age, the Dorian invasion led to significant changes in the region. The influx of Dorian Greeks influenced the political and cultural landscape, leading to the rise of new city-states and the decline of Mycenaean centers.

3. Classical Period: During the Classical period, Argos was a prominent city-state. It often allied with Athens against Sparta, reflecting the complex alliances and rivalries of ancient Greek politics. The Argolis Plain continued to be a prosperous agricultural region, supporting the population and economy of its cities.

Cultural and Religious Significance

1. Sanctuaries and Temples: The Argolis Plain was home to several important religious sites, including the Heraion of Argos, a major sanctuary dedicated to Hera. These sites were centers of worship and pilgrimage, contributing to the region's cultural significance.

2. Mythology: The region is rich in mythological associations. Mycenae is linked to the heroes of the Trojan War, such as Agamemnon, while Argos is connected to myths involving Perseus and Danaus. The Argolis Plain's mythology reflects its importance in the Greek cultural imagination.

Archaeological Discoveries

1. Monumental Architecture: Archaeological excavations have uncovered significant structures in the region, including the palaces of Mycenae and Tiryns, the Lion Gate, and the tholos tombs. These findings provide insights into the political and social organization of ancient Greek societies.

2. Artifacts and Inscriptions: Numerous artifacts, including pottery, weapons, and inscriptions, have been found in the Argolis Plain. These discoveries help historians understand the daily life, trade practices, and religious beliefs of the ancient inhabitants.

Summary

The Argolis Plain, with its fertile land and strategic location, played a central role in ancient Greek history. It was home to major cities such as Mycenae, Argos, and Tiryns, which were centers of political power, economic activity, and cultural development. The plain's rich mythology, monumental architecture, and archaeological discoveries highlight its significance in the Bronze Age and Classical periods. The Argolis Plain continues to be a vital area for understanding the complexities of ancient Greek civilization.

Sources

Greek Geography