Destruction of the Mycenaean Palaces: What Happened
Around 1200 BC, the great palaces of Mycenaean Greece were destroyed one after another. The Palace of Nestor at Pylos burned to the ground, and Mycenae, Tiryns, Thebes and other centers suffered destruction over the following decades. In the years before, many sites had strengthened their defenses. Mycenae and Tiryns extended their massive Cyclopean walls and built secret passages to underground water sources, and Linear B tablets from Pylos mention watchers being posted along the coast, suggesting fear of attack. Who or what destroyed the palaces is still debated. Possible causes include enemy raids, warfare between Mycenaean kingdoms, revolts against the ruling elite, earthquakes, and drought and famine. Most likely several of these combined as part of the wider Bronze Age Collapse. The consequences were enormous. The palace system of kings, scribes and central storehouses vanished, Linear B writing was forgotten, and much of the population scattered. Some settlements survived for a time on a smaller scale, but the Mycenaean world never recovered, and Greece entered its Dark Ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
When were the Mycenaean palaces destroyed?
The Mycenaean palaces were destroyed around 1200 BC and in the decades that followed. The Palace of Nestor at Pylos burned first, followed by destruction at Mycenae, Tiryns, Thebes and other centers.
Who destroyed the Mycenaean palaces?
Nobody knows for certain. Possible causes include enemy raids, wars between Mycenaean kingdoms, revolts, earthquakes, and drought and famine. Most likely, several factors combined as part of the wider Bronze Age Collapse.
Did the Mycenaeans see the destruction coming?
There are signs they feared attack. Mycenae and Tiryns strengthened their walls and built secret passages to underground water sources, and Linear B tablets from Pylos mention watchers posted along the coast.
What happened after the palaces fell?
The palace system of kings, scribes and storehouses disappeared, Linear B writing was forgotten and the population scattered. Some settlements survived on a smaller scale, but Greece entered its Dark Ages.
Can you visit Mycenaean palace sites?
Yes. Mycenae, Tiryns and the Palace of Nestor near Pylos are open to visitors. Mycenae and Tiryns are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, famous for the Lion Gate and massive Cyclopean walls.
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