Pylos

Definition

Pylos is an ancient Mycenaean city located on the southwestern coast of the Peloponnese in Greece, known for its significant archaeological findings and its role in Mycenaean culture. This site is particularly famous for the discovery of the 'Griffin Warrior' tomb and extensive Linear B tablets, which provide insight into the administrative and social structure of Mycenaean society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pylos is home to the Palace of Nestor, one of the best-preserved examples of Mycenaean architecture, which was discovered in 1939.
2. The Linear B tablets found at Pylos provide crucial evidence about the economic transactions and administrative practices of the Mycenaeans.
3. The tomb of the Griffin Warrior at Pylos contained a wealth of artifacts, indicating a complex society with stratified social classes and trade connections.
4. Pylos played a strategic role in maritime trade during the Mycenaean period, benefiting from its location near key shipping routes.
5. Excavations at Pylos have revealed rich burial practices that reflect the beliefs and customs surrounding death in Mycenaean culture.

Review Questions

• What are some key archaeological discoveries at Pylos, and how do they enhance our understanding of Mycenaean society?
  • Key archaeological discoveries at Pylos include the Palace of Nestor and numerous Linear B tablets. The palace provides insight into the architectural sophistication and administrative organization of Mycenaean cities. The Linear B tablets reveal information about economic activities, trade practices, and social hierarchy within Mycenaean society, allowing us to understand how they managed resources and governance.
• Discuss the significance of the Griffin Warrior tomb found at Pylos in relation to social structure and cultural practices in Mycenaean society.
  • The Griffin Warrior tomb is significant as it reflects the complexity of social hierarchy within Mycenaean society. The wealth of artifacts found within the tomb indicates that individuals could attain high status and power through military achievements or trade. Furthermore, the burial customs depicted in this tomb highlight the cultural practices surrounding death and illustrate how personal identity was intertwined with societal values during this period.
• Evaluate how Pylos serves as a representation of Mycenaean civilization's economic and political organization compared to other sites like Knossos or Tiryns.
  • Pylos serves as a critical representation of Mycenaean civilization's economic and political organization by showcasing a centralized palace structure akin to sites like Knossos or Tiryns. However, Pylos stands out due to its well-preserved Linear B tablets that document detailed administrative activities and trade relations. Compared to Knossos, known for its elaborate artistic expressions, Pylos offers more insights into practical governance and resource management, suggesting that while artistic culture thrived elsewhere, Pylos was a hub for administrative efficiency and maritime trade.

Related terms

Mycenaean Civilization:

A late Bronze Age civilization that flourished in mainland Greece and the Aegean islands, known for its palatial centers, advanced architecture, and rich artistic achievements.

Linear B: A syllabic script used for writing Mycenaean Greek, primarily found on clay tablets in palace archives, which offers valuable information about the economy, administration, and culture of Mycenaean society.

Palace of Nestor: The largest known Mycenaean palace complex at Pylos, associated with the legendary figure Nestor from Homer's epics, showcasing advanced architecture and intricate frescoes.