Mycenaean Acropolis

Location and Description:

• Koukounaries, a rocky granite hill rising 75 meters above sea level, stands as a silent witness to the rich tapestry of Paros’ ancient history. Nestled next to the water in the sheltered bay of Naousa, at the northern part of the island, Koukounaries harbors remnants of an important Mycenaean building complex dating back to the late 12th century BC. The site comprises wings, corridors, and storage rooms that, despite the passage of millennia, still bear the traces of a bygone era.

Archaeological Significance:

• The archaeological findings at Koukounaries shed light on the island’s role as one of the last refuges for Mycenaean tribes during the tumultuous final days of the 12th century BC. The complex’s storage rooms, once repositories for jars, weapons, and various items, tell a tale of destruction marked by fire around 1100 BC. This event, believed to be linked to the gradual demise of the Mycenaean civilization, marked a turning point in the region’s history.

Mycenaean Civilization’s Demise:

• Koukounaries offers a unique perspective on the gradual unraveling of the Mycenaean civilization. Following the destruction of the great palaces on the mainland, survivors sought refuge on islands in the Aegean, including Paros. The site provides evidence of a transition from the Bronze Age to the Iron Age, showcasing continuity over centuries. The demise of the Mycenaean civilization was not abrupt but rather a gradual process that unfolded over approximately 150 years. During this period, regional palace economies gave way to isolated village cultures, persisting even into the Classical Age.

Legacy and Rediscovery:

• Koukounaries stands as a testament to the resilience of ancient communities and their ability to adapt to changing circumstances. The archaeological exploration of this site has contributed significantly to our understanding of the Mycenaean period’s decline and the subsequent evolution of cultures in the Aegean.

The echoes of ancient civilizations resonate through Koukounaries, inviting contemporary visitors and scholars to contemplate the transitions, adaptations, and cultural transformations that have shaped Paros over millennia.