Grave Circle B, Mycenae

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Grave Circle B, located outside the late Bronze Age citadel of Mycenae in southern Greece, dates back to the 16th century BCE. This royal cemetery is notable for its unique characteristics and provides valuable insights into the funerary practices of the Mycenaean civilization.

The circle hosts a total of 26 graves, consisting of 14 shaft graves and 12 simple burials. Among these tombs, 24 individuals were found in the shafts, while six family tombs contained multiple occupants. Most of the shafts were marked by piles of stones, with four stelae erected on them to commemorate notable individuals. The most significant feature of Grave Circle B is its hunting scene, which was carved onto two gravestels.

The funerals at Grave Circle B can be divided into three phases, each spanning several generations. During the first phase, tombs were small and shallowly dug into the rock or ground, with few simple additions such as clay vessels. As time progressed, these tombs grew larger and more elaborate, with richer side offerings. The Late Phase I saw the emergence of larger shaft tombs, including Tomb Beta.

One notable tomb is Grab Alpha, which was discovered to be the first to be unearthed in Grave Circle B. Above its occupant lay a tombstone decorated with hunting scenes, making it one of the largest and most significant shaft tombs within the circle. Initially, only women were buried here, but later, men also joined their female counterparts.

The funerary practices at Grave Circle B reflect the cultural exchange between Mycenaean Greece and its neighboring regions. The presence of imported ornaments in half of the graves suggests a strong connection with other civilizations during this period.

History

Grave Circle B was used from approximately 1650 to 1550 BCE, before being abandoned in favor of Grabrund A as an upper-class burial site. During its use, the circle underwent significant changes, including the rebuilding of Tomb Rho and the introduction of new funerary practices.

The enclosure wall surrounding Grave Circle B is notable for its preserved section, which stretches 18 meters northward. Additionally, a protective roof made from concrete was built over Grab Ρ (Rho), providing further protection to this ancient site.

Significance

Grave Circle B offers valuable insights into the funerary practices and cultural exchange of Mycenaean Greece during the Helladic period