The Mycenaean civilization was an ancient Greek culture that thrived from around 1600 to 1100 BCE. It is known for its impressive palaces, such as those found in Mycenae and Tiryns, and for its advanced art and architecture. The Mycenaeans were skilled in trade and warfare, and they played a significant role in the development of early Greek society. Mycenaean society was organized into powerful kingdoms, each ruled by a king. They used a form of writing known as Linear B, which was an early script for the Greek language. The civilization eventually declined, leading to the Greek Dark Ages, but its influence can still be seen in later Greek culture.