Amyklaion flourishes in almost all phases of the prehistoric period. After excavations, the existence of a settlement of the Middle Helladic period (2000-1600 BC) on the hill was established.
During the Mycenaean era (1600-1100 BC) some worship was held at the site, as evidenced by the numerous figurines that came to light.
From the Archaic to the Roman period, Amyklaion is an important political and religious center of Amyklaion. The most important Spartan festival Hyacinthia held in Amyklaion symbolizes the political reconciliation of the Doric Amyklaion (Apollo) with the pro-Dorian population of Amyklaion (Hyacinthos).
On the current hill of Agia Kyriaki is the famous sanctuary of the oldest - Prodoric - god of the area, Hyacinthos, and Apollo Amyklaios.
The colossal columnar statue of Apollo was surrounded on three sides by the so-called "throne", an imposing building, the work of Bathycles from Magnesia, Asia Minor, dating to the end of the 6th century BC. Loggias and rooms made up this peculiar building (stoic edifice-altar), with the inner peristyle for watching the rituals around the tomb-altar of Hyacinthos, which was at the same time the pedestal of the colossal statue of Apollo.
In the area today, a wall, precincts and traces of foundations from various periods are preserved, as well as a circular altar.
Architectural members of mixed style, Doric and Ionic, can be seen at the Amyklaion Archaeological Museum.
Editor: Fotini Anastasopoulou