Treasury of Atreus Historical Facts and Pictures

Built around 1250 BC, the Treasury of Atreus, also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon, is an impressive bee-hive or tholos tomb, located on the Panagitsa Hill at Mycenae, Greece. The huge monolithic lintel stone on the doorway weighs 120 tons, which has been considered as the largest in the world.

Treasury of Atreus Plan

Treasury of Atreus

Treasury of Atreus Pictures

Treasury of Atreus Images

Structural description

The tomb is one of the greatest architectural structures built by the Mycenaean civilization. A single keystone holds the corbelled vaults together, which exemplifies advanced architectural technique. Topped by a relieving arch, the tomb reaches to 43 feet at the highest point and measures 47.5 feet in diameter. Moreover, it was the first structure that was built without the usage of any supporting columns. Some of the stone decorations of the building feature elements of metal.

Treasury of Atreus Photos

Treasury of Atreus Entrance

Treasure of Atreus Entrance

Interior Design and Architecture

A 17-feet high doorway in the fortress leads to the corbelled arch designed tomb. Built in concentric stone circles, the tomb is unique in its way of being constructed without the help of columns. The lintel-styled entrance exhibits decorative marble designs. The tomb has two internal chambers, which are covered by a 120 feet long and 20 feet wide walled passage. One of the two chambers has remarkable corbelled arch designs and a small room located in the right of this chamber, houses the actual treasury.