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Lerna is one of the most important prehistoric sites in the Greek world. The settlement extended over a low hill only 5.5 m. in height and covering a total area of 180x160 m. The hill was created through the accumulation of successive habitation levels over approximately 5,500 years (mid-7th-1st millennium BC). The choice of this location as a place for a permanent settlement was due to its abundant natural resources (fertile land, the springs of Lerna). In addition, its proximity to the sea and the mountains of Arcadia ensures its residents control of maritime trade routes as well as the possibility of controlling the passage to Arcadia. Systematic excavations were conducted from 1952 until 958 by the American School of Classical Studies under the direction of Professor J.L. Caskey. These were confined to the southern section of the tumulus and brought to light seven main chronological phases of human occupation identified by the Roman numerals I-VII. Following investigation, the earliest architectural remains were covered up, and a roof was built to protect the “House of the Tiles”. The finds from the excavations are on exhibit in the Archaeological Museum of Argos.
