Treasury of Atreus

Definition

The Treasury of Atreus is an impressive example of Mycenaean architecture and engineering, specifically a type of tholos tomb, which served as a burial site for elite members of society during the Late Bronze Age. This monumental structure is characterized by its large beehive-shaped dome and intricate entryway, showcasing the Mycenaeans' advanced understanding of construction and design. Its significance lies in both its architectural innovation and its role in the funerary practices of the Mycenaean civilization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Treasury of Atreus, also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon, is located at Mycenae in Greece and dates back to around 1250 BCE.
2. Its entrance features a massive lintel stone weighing approximately 120 tons, demonstrating the engineering capabilities of the Mycenaeans.
3. The tomb is approximately 14.5 meters in height and 13.5 meters in diameter, making it one of the largest known tholos tombs from this period.
4. Inside the tomb, a circular burial chamber was often adorned with rich offerings and burial goods, reflecting the status of those interred there.
5. The construction technique used for the dome involves corbelling, where stones are arranged in increasingly smaller layers to create the iconic beehive shape.

Review Questions

• How does the architectural design of the Treasury of Atreus reflect the advancements of Mycenaean engineering?
  • The architectural design of the Treasury of Atreus showcases significant advancements in Mycenaean engineering through its impressive beehive dome and large lintel stones. The construction technique employed involves corbelling, allowing for a spacious interior without the need for supporting columns. This innovation not only highlights the skillful use of materials but also indicates a deep understanding of structural integrity that was ahead of its time.
• Discuss the cultural implications of using tholos tombs like the Treasury of Atreus for burial practices among Mycenaean elites.
  • Tholos tombs such as the Treasury of Atreus played a crucial role in reinforcing social hierarchy within Mycenaean society. These monumental structures were reserved for elite individuals, emphasizing their status even in death. The rich offerings found within these tombs indicate a belief in an afterlife where wealth and status continued to have significance, thus intertwining burial practices with cultural identity and societal values.
• Evaluate the impact of the Treasury of Atreus on our understanding of Mycenaean society's technological capabilities and its funerary customs.
  • The Treasury of Atreus serves as a key artifact that allows scholars to evaluate both the technological capabilities and funerary customs of Mycenaean society. Its sophisticated architectural features reveal a high level of engineering skill, suggesting that Mycenaeans possessed advanced knowledge in construction techniques. Moreover, the lavish burial goods found within indicate elaborate funerary customs that celebrated and preserved social status, reflecting broader cultural beliefs about life, death, and legacy within this ancient civilization.

Related terms

Tholos Tomb: A circular, domed burial structure used in Mycenaean Greece, often associated with wealthy individuals and elite members of society.

Mycenaean Civilization: An ancient Greek civilization that flourished during the Late Bronze Age, known for its palatial states, impressive architecture, and significant contributions to art and culture.

Cyclopean Masonry: A type of stone construction characterized by massive blocks fitted together without the use of mortar, commonly associated with Mycenaean architecture.