About Us

The Mycenaean Foundation: Preserving the Past, Inspiring the Future

The Mycenaean Foundation is a distinguished non-profit organization committed to exploring, protecting, and celebrating the timeless legacy of the Mycenaean civilization. Through a unique blend of archaeological research, educational initiatives, and cultural outreach, the Foundation fosters collaboration across continents and disciplines, uniting scholars, students, and enthusiasts in a shared passion for one of the most influential cultures of the ancient world.

Founded in 1967 by the eminent archaeologist Dr. George Mylonas, the Mycenaean Foundation was envisioned as a bridge connecting the ancient past with the modern world. For decades, it has brought together academic researchers, local communities, and international visitors, creating a vibrant network dedicated to uncovering the secrets of Mycenae and sharing its extraordinary story with the world.

With a proud history spanning more than fifty years, the Foundation has played a transformative role in advancing archaeological discoveries, enriching educational opportunities, and deepening public understanding of ancient Greece. From facilitating groundbreaking excavations at Mycenae to hosting immersive study-abroad programs and cultural initiatives, the Mycenaean Foundation has become an enduring symbol of dedication to preserving history while inspiring future generations to learn from it.

Established in 1967

” Quote from the President of the Foundation”

Mission and Vision

Mission: The Mycenaean Foundation is committed to advancing archaeological research, fostering interdisciplinary education, and promoting cultural heritage preservation. We provide resources and opportunities for scholars and students to engage with Mycenaean archaeology while strengthening international academic collaboration.

Vision: We envision a world where the rich history of the Mycenaean civilization is widely studied, preserved, and celebrated. Through innovative research, immersive educational programs, and cultural initiatives, we strive to deepen global understanding of the past while inspiring future generations of archaeologists, historians, and cultural enthusiasts.

Our Impact and Contributions

For over fifty years, the Mycenaean Foundation has played a transformative role in advancing archaeological discoveries, enriching educational opportunities, and strengthening global academic cooperation. Through a steadfast commitment to research, education, and cultural exchange, we have fostered a deeper understanding of Mycenaean civilization and its enduring legacy. Our key contributions include:

Archaeological Excavations & Research

  • The Foundation has been at the forefront of archaeological exploration, sponsoring and conducting systematic excavations at Mycenae and Lamia. These efforts have led to groundbreaking discoveries that continually reshape our understanding of Aegean prehistory. Through meticulous fieldwork, innovative research methodologies, and interdisciplinary collaboration, our excavations have uncovered significant artifacts, architectural structures, and burial sites, providing invaluable insights into ancient Mycenaean society, economy, and culture.

Academic Support & Scholarly Resources

  • Recognizing the need for accessible academic resources, the Mycenaean Foundation actively supports scholars by subsidizing peer-reviewed publications and facilitating the dissemination of archaeological findings. Additionally, we provide essential infrastructure for research, including:
    • A well-stocked library housing rare texts and specialized resources on Mycenaean civilization.
    • Study rooms and workspaces, fostering a productive environment for researchers and students.
    • A dedicated laboratory equipped for artifact analysis, conservation, and interdisciplinary scientific studies.
    • Collaborative opportunities for archaeologists, students, and technicians to engage in hands-on research.

Educational Programs & Field Training

  • Education is at the heart of our mission. Through immersive study-abroad programs, we offer students from around the world the opportunity to engage directly with archaeological fieldwork. Our programs integrate hands-on training in excavation techniques, artifact processing, and digital documentation with a robust academic curriculum covering history, anthropology, and art history. These experiences not only enhance students’ technical skills but also deepen their appreciation for ancient civilizations and their interconnected legacies.

Cultural Outreach & Public Engagement

  • The Foundation is committed to making Mycenaean heritage accessible to a wider audience through:
    • Lectures and seminars led by esteemed scholars, sharing the latest research and discoveries.
    • Workshops and colloquia, fostering dialogue on archaeological methodologies, conservation strategies, and interdisciplinary studies.
    • International conferences, bringing together experts from around the world to discuss the broader implications of Mycenaean studies.
    • Community engagement initiatives, promoting awareness of cultural heritage through exhibitions, guided tours, and digital media.
    • Volunteer opportunities, allowing students, researchers, and enthusiasts to actively participate in excavation projects, artifact preservation, educational outreach, and event organization, gaining hands-on experience in archaeology and cultural heritage management.

Our Future Goals

Looking ahead, the Mycenaean Foundation is committed to:

  • Expanding Archaeological Projects: Sponsoring new fieldwork initiatives at key prehistoric sites across the Aegean region, incorporating cutting-edge excavation techniques, advanced digital documentation, and scientific analysis to further our understanding of early civilizations.

  • Enhancing Educational Opportunities: Establishing scholarships and fellowships for undergraduate and graduate students specializing in Aegean Prehistory, ensuring that talented scholars from diverse backgrounds have the resources to pursue their research and field studies.

  • Strengthening Research Initiatives: Supporting interdisciplinary faculty-student research collaborations in archaeology, bioarchaeology, geoarchaeology, archaeometry, and cultural heritage management, encouraging innovative approaches to studying the past while integrating the latest scientific advancements.

  • Broadening Global Engagement: Partnering with additional academic institutions worldwide to expand study-abroad opportunities, facilitate cross-cultural academic exchange, and create new avenues for international collaboration in archaeological research and heritage preservation.

Why We Excel as a Non-Profit Foundation

  • A Legacy of Excellence: Over five decades of groundbreaking discoveries and academic contributions.

  • Interdisciplinary & Holistic Education: Integrating theoretical knowledge with practical fieldwork and cultural immersion.

  • International Reach: Collaborating with esteemed institutions across the U.S. and Greece to provide unique study-abroad experiences.

  • Commitment to Cultural Preservation: Actively working to protect and promote the legacy of the Mycenaean civilization for future generations.

  • Strong Network of Scholars & Enthusiasts: Uniting academics, students, and cultural heritage advocates worldwide.

The Mycenaean Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to bridge past and present, research and education, culture and community. By preserving history and fostering academic inquiry, we ensure that the legacy of Mycenae continues to inspire and inform generations to come.