Cyclopean combae, Mykenae

Cyclopean walls, also known as Cyclopean masonry, are a style of construction using massive, irregularly shaped stones fitted together without the use of mortar. One of the most famous examples of Cyclopean walls can be seen in the ruins of Mycenae, an ancient city located in the northeastern part of the Peloponnese peninsula in Greece. The imposing walls of Mycenae were built using this technique around the 14th and 13th centuries BCE. These walls are made of large limestone blocks, some weighing several tons, and were skillfully placed to create a defensive perimeter around the city. The term "Cyclopean" comes from the belief that only the mythical Cyclops, with their immense strength, could have lifted such massive stones. The construction of these walls at Mycenae is a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the ancient Mycenaeans. The precision with which the stones were cut and fitted together without the use of mortar is a remarkable feat that has withstood the test of time. Visiting the ruins of Mycenae today, one can still marvel at the impressive Cyclopean walls that once protected this ancient city. The site offers a glimpse into the rich history and architectural achievements of the Mycenaean civilization, providing a fascinating insight into the past.