Argos is a major stronghold of Mycenaean times, and along with the neighboring acropolis of Mycenae and Tiryns becomes a very early settlement because of its commanding positions in the midst of the fertile plain of Argolis.During Homeric times, it belongs to a follower of Agamemnon and gives its name to the surrounding district; the Argolid, which the Romans will call Argeia.Argos experiences its greatest period of expansion and power under the energetic 7th century BCE ruler King Pheidon.

Under Pheidon, Argos regains sway over the cities of the Argolid and challenges Sparta’s dominance of the Peloponnese.

Argos remaines neutral or the ineffective ally of Athens during the 5th century BCE struggles between Sparta and Athens.