Let’s dive into a beautiful part of the Megalithic Structures in Greece and the ancient history of Greece!
Mega what? Surprisingly the word Megalithic means “Big Stones,” and the name itself is Greek, like many used in science.
They are also known as Cyclopic (origins from the word Cyclop, which refers to a race of Greek giants). You may have read about Cyclop Polyfimos from the Odyssey.
While the word Megalithic people tend to believe it is about buildings, it is also used for other types of construction works like tunnels and more.
So, there are those of “Stonehenge type” but not only. Unesco defines as Megalithic, all the constructions built with megaliths (big stones).
In Greece, the Megalithic monument is usually combinations and formations of a variety of shapes and geometry.
While some resemble the front of a ship, others were used in aqueducts and tunnels. Others look like Stonehenge.
For example, they are built at a location of fantastic scenery, they are oriented with some star constellation, rocks are connected without some intermediate material (like mud, clay), they carry petroglyphs, and they seem perfectly carved to fit. Too perfect indeed.
Here is a list of such megalithic monuments which are a well-shared knowledge among archaeologists.
Table of Contents
The Citadel and Lion Gate at Mycenae Megalithic Structures
Location: Mycenae, Peloponnese.
This gate is known to modern culture as the Lion Gate because of its impressive sculpture that sits above it. The first person to excavate Mycenae and restore this area in 1841 was Greek archaeologist, Kyriakos Pittakis!
Read our post for Mycenae.
Eupalinos Tunnel (Aqueduct)
Location: Island of Samos.
The Eupalinos Tunnel is considered by many to be one of the most important engineering achievements in history. It’s a 1036m long tunnel on Samos Island, Greece built around 600 BC which served as both aqueduct and sewer system for Pythagoreion city – supplying fresh water from Agiades spring via pipes running beneath its streets before draining into baking pans outside various homes throughout town where they could then drink without risk.
Read our post for Pythagoras Cave in Samos.
Megalithic Structure of the Fort of Tiryns
Location: Tiryns, Peloponnese.
The Cyclopes were known for their great skill in architecture, so it’s no surprise that they built Fort Tiryns. The fort stands on the shore of an ancient ruin with other structures similar to its own design—made by these talented builders!
Credits: Wikipedia
“Dragonhouse” of Ochi Megalithic Structure
Location: Karistos, Evia.
You’ll be scaling an intense uphill route leading you to the peak of Mount Ochi, at a height of 1399 meters above sea level. You can either continue on from here by turning left 3 kilometers after Metohi village along Karystos-Platanistos road or take one final push to reach your destination in about 5 more minutes when arriving through gate number 23 before it locks tight for 24 hour period each day but does offer ample opportunities should someone want to explore further into this protected forest covering 600 square meters with immense tree trunks, stone circles resembling impressive sculptures.
Megalithic Pyramid of Argos
Location: Argos, Peloponnese.
The ancient structure of the Pyramid of Hellinikon is a unique phenomenon and an archaeological mystery. This location near Argos once led to Tegea, but now it’s just another forgotten stretch on what seems like an endless highway without much life in sight!
The Arcadian Megalithic Gate, Messini
Location: Messini, Peloponnese.
What’s the deal with all those ancient Greek ruins? You know, like King Minos’ Palace and Labirinto de los Profetas. Well I’ll tell ya – it was once called “Arcadia.” Why not visit our own megalithic Arcadian Gate right now! It’s an enormous portal that is placed between two sides of this huge circular courtyard placed in front of itself; there are no walls or ceiling anywhere nearby though so make sure to bring your camera if possible.
Frequently asked questions
What are the three types of megalithic structures?
The construction of megaliths was a widespread practice throughout the world, especially in Europe. There are several different types including menhirs (erect stones), dolmens(flat stone pillars resting on two Stoney legs), and stone circle; these were typically used for religious purposes or ceremonies from the Late Neolithic periods through Iron Age Britain’s classical era.
Why are there megalithic structures?
Megalith structures are a very interesting type of stone construction that was used for many purposes. One use was to maintain continuity in harvest and crop, while other times they served as an individual or collective megalithic tombs!
So, here is an intriguing question.
How did they lift all these vast rocks?
How were they placed and set with such accuracy? Some of them fit so perfectly that not even a paper leaf can pass through.
Also, read about the oldest buildings in the world.
This is indeed a mystery that spreads all over the world, as many megalithic monuments exist everywhere, and Greece has its part.
Credits of the cover photo: konstantinosk