Paper abstract
The Bronze Age - Iron Age transition at Mitrou, in East Lokris: evidence for continuity and discontinuity
- Van de Moortel Aleydis - Zahou Eleni
The first three seasons of excavations (2004-2006) at the prehistoric site of Mitrou, on the North Euboean Gulf in Central Greece, have uncovered well-stratified remains of all ceramic phases of the final Bronze Age and Early Iron Age, making Mitrou one of only a handful of sites in Greece where the “Dark Age” at the transition between the two periods can be closely studied. Moreover, because of its location on an important terrestrial and maritime passage between northern and southern Greece it is an ideal site for investigating any movement of people or ideas during this period of transition. Our results show a remarkable degree of continuity in occupation and, to some extent, spatial use. Most remarkable is the discovery of an important Early Iron Age apsidal structure (Building A) constructed inside a large final Bronze Age structure (Building B). The rich floor deposit found inside Building A sheds light on the function of this little understood building type. Outside Building A, however, the use of space has changed, with the adjacent area given over to flimsy constructions and part of the final Bronze Age settlement turned into a cemetery. Other evidence for continuity and change in the material culture will be explored as well.
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