Papers by Michalis Gazis
Regional variation in Mycenaean pottery. International workshop 27-28 October 2022 Institute of Archaeology and Ethnology, Polish Academy of Sciences , 2022
στο Ν. Μερούσης, Μ. Νικολαΐδου, Λ. Στεφανή (επιμ.) ΜΥΡΡΙΝΗ - Μελέτες Αιγαιακής Προϊστορίας . Τιμητικός τόμος για την Αικατερίνη Απαπαευθυμίου - Παπανθίμου. Έκδοση του Αρχαιολογικού Μουσείου Θεσσαλονίκης αρ. 50, Θεσσαλονίκη 2022, 2022
Ε π ι σ κ έ ψ ι µε ς µυ κ η ν α ϊ κ έ ς θ έ σ ε ι ς σ τ η δ υ τ ι κ ή Α χ α ΐ α. Visitable mycena... more Ε π ι σ κ έ ψ ι µε ς µυ κ η ν α ϊ κ έ ς θ έ σ ε ι ς σ τ η δ υ τ ι κ ή Α χ α ΐ α. Visitable mycenaean sites in western Achaia.
Γ ΄ ΔΙΕΘΝΕΣ ΔΙΕΠΙΣΤΗΜΟΝΙΚΟ ΣΥΜΠΟΣΙΟ "Η ΠΕΡΙΦΕΡΕΙΑ ΤΟΥ ΜΥΚΗΝΑΪΚΟΥ ΚΟΣΜΟΥ Πρόσφατα ευρήματα και πορίσματα της έρευνας", Λαμία 18-21 Μαΐου 2018_3rd INTERNATIONAL INTERDISCIPLINARY COLLOQUIUM "THE PERIPHERY OF THE MYCENΑEAN WORLD Recent discoveries and research results", 18-21 May, Lamia 2018 , 2021
Recent discoveries and research results ΥΠΟΥρΓΕιΟ ΠΟΛιτιΣΜΟΥ και αΘΛΗτιΣΜΟΥ ΓΕΝΙΚΗ ΔΙΕΥΘΥΝΣΗ ΑΡΧΑ... more Recent discoveries and research results ΥΠΟΥρΓΕιΟ ΠΟΛιτιΣΜΟΥ και αΘΛΗτιΣΜΟΥ ΓΕΝΙΚΗ ΔΙΕΥΘΥΝΣΗ ΑΡΧΑΙΟΤΗΤΩΝ ΚΑΙ ΠΟΛΙΤΙΣΤΙΚΗΣ ΚΛΗΡΟΝΟΜΙΑΣ ΕΦΟΡΕΙΑ ΑΡΧΑΙΟΤΗΤΩΝ ΦΘΙΩΤΙΔΑΣ ΚΑΙ ΕΥΡΥΤΑΝΙΑΣ MinisTrY oF cULTUre and sPorTs GENERAL DIRECTΟRΑΤΕ OF ANTIQUITIES AND CULTURAL HERITAGE EPHORATE OF ANTIQUITIES OF FTHIOTIDA AND EVRYTANIA Π ρ α κ τ ι κ a P r o c e e d i n g s Επιμέλεια Ε ΦΗ ΚΑ ΡΑ Ν Τ Ζ Α Λ Η E d ite d by E F I KA R A N T Z A L I υπουργει ο π ολ ι τ ι σ μ ου κ Α ι Α θλ η τ ι σ μ ου ΑθηνΑ / athens 2021
ΤΑ ΝΕΚΡΟΤΑΦΕΙΑ. Χωροταξική οργάνωση, ταφικά έθιμα, τελετουργίες. ΥΠΠΟΑ. ΓΔΑΠΚ, ΔΙΠΚΑ, 2019
The Mycenaean cemetery at Rhodia, Katarraktis Achaea
Konstantina Aktypi - Michalis Gazis
The Myc... more The Mycenaean cemetery at Rhodia, Katarraktis Achaea
Konstantina Aktypi - Michalis Gazis
The Mycenaean cemetery at Rhodia (formerly Bouga) is located ca. 30 km. southeast of Patras, 3 km. south-southwest of Katarraktis (formerly Lopesi). The tombs are built on the steep slope of the small mountain called Bogovouni on a location that offers unhindered view of most of the Western Achaean plain and part of the semi-mountainous area. This paper presents a comprehensive picture of this important prehistoric cemetery that includes two tholos tombs, five cist graves and one pit. Our work was based on the results of the original excavation by N. zapheiropoulos in 1956, as well as on additional data that came to light during the restoration work of the period 2002-2006 and more recently as a result of urgent rescue excavation after looting incidents (2013-2014).
The tholos tombs A and B were constructed in close proximity to each other, making use of the local grayish limestone following the corbelling technique. In addition to the different orientation of their dromoi and chambers, the two tholos tombs also differ in a number of architectural features, which are analysed in the paper. The chamber of tholos A has a diameter of 3.95 m., while the rather badly preserved chamber of tholos B has a diameter of 4.80 m.-
5.30 m. A stone-built peribolos (enclosure) was built around the chamber of tholos B in order to support the tumulus that was covering the tholos. A burial pit was located beneath the floor of the chamber, after a looting incident, containing the skeletal remains of at least one adult individual (under study by O. A. Jones).
In very close proximity to the two tholos tombs and on a slightly higher level a total of five cist graves (two slab cists and three built cist) and one pit were excavated in 2003. The graves were apparently looted, the only artefacts found inside them being two pots dating to the Lh II-IIIA period.
An assemblage of ten metal artefacts brought to light by zapheiropoulos’ excavation in relation to tholos B has become known as “the Pharai treasure”. Beside their artistic value, these artefacts are the basis on which the Rhodia cemetery was dated to the Lh II-Lh IIIA1 period. Although it is very doubtful that the “Pharai treasure” can be securely associated with the holdings of tholos tomb B’ s chamber, they nevertheless reflect the presence here of an affluent social group. It remains unclear with which of the known prehistoric settlements in the region should the cemetery at Rhodia be associated. The nearest sites are Agios Athanasios to the south and Agios Georgios to the northwest; two more sites investigated by zapheiropoulos at Pyrgaki and Drakotrypa are further away from Rhodia, with no visual contact to the site.
The tholos tombs at Rhodia notwithstanding, another six tholos tombs have come to light in Western Achaea: at Kallithea, Petroto, Portes, and chalandritsa, the latter badly preserved and still unexcavated. A number of similarities can be seen between the cemeteries at Rhodia and Portes, both in regard to the architectural features of the tholos tombs, as well as the existence of both built and simple cist graves in close proximity to the tholos tombs.
The two tombs at Rhodia belong to the category of small tholos tombs, Pelon’s type A, with a diameter of less than 6 m. Their structural elements indicate that they were probably built by different craftsmen, making use of different techniques and at different time periods. The bad preservation of tholos tomb B can be partly attributed to the probable later use of its chamber or its surroundings, as documented by a series of ceramic finds dating to the Byzantine period.
Small sized tholos tombs were in all probability intended for powerful local rulers and their families, acting with a considerable degree of autonomy, in a period and in a region where there is, so far, no evidence of palatial centers. The example of Voudeni, where two monumental chamber tombs with lavish offerings stand out from the rest, seems to indicate that the social status of the deceased was not necessarily connected to a specific tomb type, i.e. the tholos tomb. Moreover, while none of the tholos tombs at Achaea can be considered as monumental, they do constitute a distinct category of sepulchral structures, both in a semiological level, as well as in terms of size, technical expertise and construction cost.
The choice of a geographically remote, almost isolated, location gives rise to reasonable questions. however, the available data both from the tholos tombs and the neighboring settlements in the region are more than adequate to make us believe that the conditions in the region facilitated the, seemingly unexpected, existence here of two tholos tombs such as those at Rhodia. The dense network of prehistoric sites, in conjunction with the presence of the cemeteries and the tholos tombs must have been associated with social groups that were in control of the agricultural production, as well as the overland routes and natural passes that connect Achaea’s coastal plain with its mountainous hinterland to this day. The tombs at Rhodia reflect the existence of exactly such a group, or groups, and their leaders, who had not only the will but also the means to construct such burial monuments that stand out both in a practical and a symbolic level.
Οι δύο θολωτοί τάφοι της Ροδιάς, στην περιοχή του Καταρράκτη Φαρών Αχαΐας ανακαλύφθηκαν το 1956 από τον αρχαιολόγο Νικόλαο Ζαφειρόπουλο. Έμειναν γνωστοί στη βιβλιογραφία χάρη στο 'θησαυρό των Φαρών', δηλαδή στην ομάδα των δέκα χάλκινων και ασημένιων όπλων, εργαλείων και αγγείων που βρέθηκαν στο χώρο έξω από τον περίβολο του μεγαλύτερου θολωτού τάφου. Κατά τη διάρκεια των ετών 2002-2006 πραγματοποιήθηκαν εργασίες συντήρησης, στερέωσης και ανάδειξης του αρχαιολογικού χώρου, οπότε και αποκαλύφθηκαν πέντε κιβωτιόσχημοι τάφοι και ένας λάκκος σε μικρή απόσταση από τους θολωτούς. Με βάση την τυπολογία των τάφων και τα ευρήματα, σε συνδυασμό και με το θησαυρό των Φαρών, οι τάφοι χρονολογούνται από την ΥΕ ΙΙ έως την ΥΕ ΙΙΙΑ2-ΥΕ ΙΙΙΒ1 περίοδο. Η μελέτη βασίζεται στο σύνολο των παλαιών και νέων δεδομένων (χωροταξία, αρχιτεκτονική, ευρήματα, ταφικά έθιμα), και έχει στόχο να τονίσει τη σημασία της περιοχής του Καταρράκτη στην Αχαΐα κατά την πρώιμη μυκηναϊκή περίοδο.
ΤΟ ΑΡΧΑΙΟΛΟΓΙΚΟ ΕΡΓΟ ΣΤΗΝ ΠΕΛΟΠΟΝΝΗΣΟ 2 (ΑΕΠΕΛ2), 2021
Τhis paper presents the sequence of steps for the creation of the 3D digital exhibition in Patras... more Τhis paper presents the sequence of steps for the creation of the 3D digital exhibition in Patras’ Archaeological
Museum. The implementation of the 3D exhibition was carried out between September 2014 and October 2015 as part of the
“Creation of a digital, virtual exhibition in Patras’ New Museum, using Information and Communication technologies”
project. The application comprised the creation of short videos using 3D digital animation presented on screens placed in the
corresponding spots in the exhibition halls. Eight videos were created in all, each presenting one significant monument or
site in Patras and western Achaea. The short videos present the Roman Odeon, Stadium, Aqueduct, Bath and Bridge of
Patras, the diachronic evolution of the city, the prehistoric citadel at Teichos Dymaion and the Mycenaean settlement at
Chalandritsa. The 3D digital models were based on a combination of existing archaeological documentation with new
photographic data and extensive 4K aerial footage, 3D modeling and rendering.
Gli Achei in Grecia e in Magna Grecia. Nuove scoperte e nuove prospective, E. Greco & A. Rizakis (ed.) Annuario, Supplemento 3, 2019
AEGAEUM 43 - MNHMH / MNEME PAST AND MEMORY IN THE AEGEAN BRONZE AGE. Proceedings of the 17th International Aegean Conference, University of Udine, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, 17-21 April 2018. Edited by Elisabetta BORGNA, Ilaria CALOI, Filippo Maria CARINCI and Robert LAFFINEUR, 2019
Ε. Ζυμή, Α-Β. Καραπαναγιώτου, Μ. Ξανθοπούλου (επιμ.) ΤΟ ΑΡΧΑΙΟΛΟΓΙΚΟ ΕΡΓΟ ΣΤΗΝ ΠΕΛΟΠΟNΝΗΣΟ (ΑΕΠΕΛ1), Πρακτικά του Διεθνούς Συνεδρίου (Τρίπολη 7-11 Νοεμβρίου 2012), Καλαμάτα 2018, 33-48, 2018
The paper presents new data on the Early Helladic occupation at the prehistoric citadel of Teicho... more The paper presents new data on the Early Helladic occupation at the prehistoric citadel of Teichos Dymaion, Achaea, based on the excavations during the period 1999-2008.
Architectural remains of a substantial EH settlement have been brought to light, both within and outside the citadel, dating to the EH II and EH III periods.
An interesting assemblage of pottery with incised and impressed decoration was also found that relates to the Cetina type pottery of the late 3rd millennium BC.
The new evidence promotes our knowledge concerning the Early Helladic occupation at Teichos Dymaion, putting it within the wider context of central-eastern Mediterrannean network of contacts.
ΕΣΠΕΡΟΣ / ΗESPEROS, THE AEGEAN SEEN FROM THE WEST, Proceedings of the 16th International Aegean Conference, University of Ioannina (18-21 May 2016), Edited by Michael FOTIADIS, Robert LAFFINEUR, Yannos LOLOS, and Andreas VLACHOPOULOS, 2017
and Phosphoros: how research on Aegean-Eastern interactions can inform studies of the West (prese... more and Phosphoros: how research on Aegean-Eastern interactions can inform studies of the West (presented at the Conference as a poster) IV. BALKANS-AEGEAN Shafi GASHI Relations between the Mycenaean world and Kosovo, as reflected in imported vessels and weapons Maja GORI The Aegean seen from the Northwest. Overcoming old interpretative frameworks in the field of Aegean-Balkan relations
Πρακτικά Ημερίδας 19 Σεπτεμβρίου 2016 _ Αρχαιολογικοί χώροι και μνημεία του Δήμου Δυτικής Αχαΐας
Teichos Dymaion, the only prehistoric cyclopean fortified citadel of western Greece, occupies ast... more Teichos Dymaion, the only prehistoric cyclopean fortified citadel of western Greece, occupies astrategic position between two lagoons (Pappas and Prokopos) at the southeastern tip of the so- called Mavra Vouna (black mountains), on a low rocky hill, roughly 60 m above sea level. The earliest documents of human presence are ceramic finds dating to the final Neolithic (late 4th-early 3rd mill. BC). The first permanent settlement was established during the Early Bronze Age (2800-2000 BC). Pottery finds of the Early Helladic III period (ca. 2200-2000 BC) indicate that Teichos Dymaion was part of a wider network of contacts along the central and eastern Mediterranean. The middle Helladic period (2000–1600 BC) is represented by a considerable pottery assemblage and more scanty architectural remains. The acme of the settlement was reached during the Mycenaean period (1600-1000 BC). The site took its current form during the 13th and 12th c. BC, with the expansion of the settlement and the construction of the cyclopean fortification. Teichos Dymaion became the gateway of western Achaea towards the west, a kind of naval base of the Mycenaean rulers of the region. The site remained in use more or less constantly until late antiquity. Modifications in the fortification, were carried out during the middle Byzantine period (11th c. AD). Habitation was sporadic during later periods and by the18th c. the site was practically abandoned. A large scale restoration project was implemented between 1998 and 2008. The site is now open to the public.
The two tholos tombs (A and B) at Rhodia, ca. 25 km. south of Patra, Achaea, were excavated by Ni... more The two tholos tombs (A and B) at Rhodia, ca. 25 km. south of Patra, Achaea, were excavated by Nikolaos Zapheiropoulos in 1956. He published two brief preliminary reports (ΠΑΕ 1956 and 1957-the Annals of the Archaeological Society in Athens) that remain our basic source of information. Both tombs were partly destroyed and looted, but a number of remarkable bronze and silver artefacts were found in relation with tomb B, dated to the LH IIIB period, although some are earlier. More recently (2002-2006), restoration work was done on tomb B, and a brief investigation of its environs brought to light five cist / built chamber tombs that remain unpublished. Small-scale rescue excavation of the two tholoi was carried out in June/July 2014. This followed a looting incident that caused severe damage to the interior of tholos B and to a lesser extend to that of tholos A. Τhe excavation was considered necessary both in order to assess the measure of the damage caused, as well as to verify certain unclear issues regarding the tombs' construction. The most interesting and unexpected finds were a pit dug deep below the tomb's original floor and an in situ burial of an infant on the deposit covering the floor of tholos B. The study of the skeletal material has been undertaken by Olivia A. Jones. The aim of this paper is to make a comprehensive study of the two tholos tombs and the five (5) cist and built chamber tombs, incorporating all the archaeological and archive material available from the old excavations. The study is expected to shed light to a very significant aspect of Mycenaean Achaea, i.e. the tholos tombs, and highlight their role as social and cultural indicators.
in print Α΄ ΘΕΜΑΤΙΚΟΣ ΤΟΜΟΣ ΔΗΜΟΣΙΕΥΣΗΣ ΠΡΟΪΣΤΟΡΙΚΩΝ ΚΑΙ ΚΛΑΣΙΚΩΝ ΣΩΣΤΙΚΩΝ ΑΝΑΣΚΑΦΙΚΩΝ ΕΡΓΑΣΙΩΝ ΕΦΟΡΕΙΩΝ ΑΡΧΑΙΟΤΗΤΩΝ, ΤΜΗΜΑ ΠΡΟΪΣΤΟΡΙΚΩΝ ΚΑΙ ΚΛΑΣΙΚΩΝ ΧΩΡΩΝ, ΜΝΗΜΕΙΩΝ & ΑΡΧ/ΚΩΝ ΕΡΓΩΝ, Δ/ΝΣΗ ΠΡΟΪΣΤΟΡΙΚΩΝ ΚΑΙ ΚΛΑΣΙΚΩΝ ΑΡΧΑΙΟΤΗΤΩΝ, ΓΕΝΙΚΗ Δ/ΝΣΗ ΑΡΧ/ΤΩΝ ΚΑΙ ΠΟΛΙΤΙΣΤΙΚΗΣ ΚΛΗΡΟΝΟΜΙΑΣ
R. Jung – Ι. Moschos – M. Mehofer (eds.), Krieg und Frieden zwischen Italien und Westgriechenland. Importe und Einflüsse aus Italien im mykenischen Achaia, in Ätolien und auf Kefalonia (forthcoming as a bilingual [in German and Greek]
Η έκδοση πραγματοποιήθηκε με τη χορηγία του INSTAP (Ινστιτούτο Αιγαιακής Προϊστορίας). Undertaken... more Η έκδοση πραγματοποιήθηκε με τη χορηγία του INSTAP (Ινστιτούτο Αιγαιακής Προϊστορίας). Undertaken with the assistance of the Institute for Aegean Prehistory, Philadelphia, USA. Η έκδοση ενισχύθηκε οικονομικά από το Αρχαιολογικό Μουσείο Θεσσαλονίκης, τον † Γιώργο και τη Χρυσούλα Παλιαδέλη. Η ίριδα του εξωφύλλου στηρίζεται στην απόδοση μινωικής τοιχογραφίας από την Αμνισό σύμφωνα με τον Cameron: D. Evely (επιμ.), Ένα διαβατήριο για το παρελθόν. Η μινωική Κρήτη με τη ματιά του M. Cameron, Αθήνα 1999, 223, έγχρωμος πίνακας αρ. c.
Archaeological excavation is a destructive process, which ideally unveils a wealth of useful phys... more Archaeological excavation is a destructive process, which ideally unveils a wealth of useful physical finds, but irreversibly discards the exact spatial relationship between the finds and the site. Partially, this information is archived in the archaeological record in the form of sketches and measurements. However, this is often not sufficient to imagine the spatial relationships afterwards, in particular when different depth layers are involved. For archaeologists who were not able to physically visit the site during the excavation, the interpretation of the finds can be difficult.
Conference Presentations by Michalis Gazis
Stonecutters and Mosaicists at Work. Identifying Craftspeople and Their Workshops Through the Lens of Epigraphy. Poland University of Warsaw Faculty of History, 30 November - 1 December 2023, 2023
Patras reached what can be considered as its historical heyday in the period following the establ... more Patras reached what can be considered as its historical heyday in the period following the establishment by Augustus of the roman colony COLONIA AUGUSTA ACHAICA PATRENSIS in 14 BCE. During the first
three centuries AD the city underwent a complete urban planning, commercial, economic, social and aesthetic transformation; specialised workshops and craftspeople were responsible for the realization of
major infrastructure projects (the harbor, bridges, retaining walls etc) and buildings associated with public spectacles (the Stadium and the Odeon). Among the various craftsmen, the mosaics workshops stand
out, since the archaeological research/excavations have brought to light more than 200 rooms with mosaic floors in the heart of the Roman city, both in public buildings as well as in luxurious private houses and
private burial chambers. The identification of common features in the stylistic and construction details of some of the mosaic floors raises the question whether those can be attributed to specific workshops. In an
attempt to formulate answers to this question this paper focuses on six main research axes: 1. Mapping of the mosaic floors within the urban context of the Roman city: location of the public and private houses with
mosaics, in combination with the conscious choice of the decorative repertoire, according to the city's urban quarters [mythological, everyday life, games-sports, dedicatory, ξένια (gifts mainly to the house'
guests but also to the Gods etc)]. 2. Inscriptions on mosaic floors (names of individuals depicted, proverbs and words of advice, honorary inscriptions): inscription interpretation, identification of tessellation
techniques in relation to the inscriptions' symbolism. 3. Recognition of tessellation techniques (composition analyses, dimensions, cutting methods) and quantification. 4. Evidence of ancient repairs and
modifications of mosaic floors throughout the period of use of the buildings, based on the archaeological data. 5. Differences in the stylistic rendering of similar themes and motifs. 6. Quantification of the use of
popular geometric motifs in combination with construction details. A synthesis of the data along the axes described above, beyond viewing the mosaics as works of art, tells us stories about the people and the city
itself: the personalities and activities of owners/ clients, the artisans "hiding" behind the various decorative themes of mosaic floors, as well as different aspects of city life.
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Papers by Michalis Gazis
Konstantina Aktypi - Michalis Gazis
The Mycenaean cemetery at Rhodia (formerly Bouga) is located ca. 30 km. southeast of Patras, 3 km. south-southwest of Katarraktis (formerly Lopesi). The tombs are built on the steep slope of the small mountain called Bogovouni on a location that offers unhindered view of most of the Western Achaean plain and part of the semi-mountainous area. This paper presents a comprehensive picture of this important prehistoric cemetery that includes two tholos tombs, five cist graves and one pit. Our work was based on the results of the original excavation by N. zapheiropoulos in 1956, as well as on additional data that came to light during the restoration work of the period 2002-2006 and more recently as a result of urgent rescue excavation after looting incidents (2013-2014).
The tholos tombs A and B were constructed in close proximity to each other, making use of the local grayish limestone following the corbelling technique. In addition to the different orientation of their dromoi and chambers, the two tholos tombs also differ in a number of architectural features, which are analysed in the paper. The chamber of tholos A has a diameter of 3.95 m., while the rather badly preserved chamber of tholos B has a diameter of 4.80 m.-
5.30 m. A stone-built peribolos (enclosure) was built around the chamber of tholos B in order to support the tumulus that was covering the tholos. A burial pit was located beneath the floor of the chamber, after a looting incident, containing the skeletal remains of at least one adult individual (under study by O. A. Jones).
In very close proximity to the two tholos tombs and on a slightly higher level a total of five cist graves (two slab cists and three built cist) and one pit were excavated in 2003. The graves were apparently looted, the only artefacts found inside them being two pots dating to the Lh II-IIIA period.
An assemblage of ten metal artefacts brought to light by zapheiropoulos’ excavation in relation to tholos B has become known as “the Pharai treasure”. Beside their artistic value, these artefacts are the basis on which the Rhodia cemetery was dated to the Lh II-Lh IIIA1 period. Although it is very doubtful that the “Pharai treasure” can be securely associated with the holdings of tholos tomb B’ s chamber, they nevertheless reflect the presence here of an affluent social group. It remains unclear with which of the known prehistoric settlements in the region should the cemetery at Rhodia be associated. The nearest sites are Agios Athanasios to the south and Agios Georgios to the northwest; two more sites investigated by zapheiropoulos at Pyrgaki and Drakotrypa are further away from Rhodia, with no visual contact to the site.
The tholos tombs at Rhodia notwithstanding, another six tholos tombs have come to light in Western Achaea: at Kallithea, Petroto, Portes, and chalandritsa, the latter badly preserved and still unexcavated. A number of similarities can be seen between the cemeteries at Rhodia and Portes, both in regard to the architectural features of the tholos tombs, as well as the existence of both built and simple cist graves in close proximity to the tholos tombs.
The two tombs at Rhodia belong to the category of small tholos tombs, Pelon’s type A, with a diameter of less than 6 m. Their structural elements indicate that they were probably built by different craftsmen, making use of different techniques and at different time periods. The bad preservation of tholos tomb B can be partly attributed to the probable later use of its chamber or its surroundings, as documented by a series of ceramic finds dating to the Byzantine period.
Small sized tholos tombs were in all probability intended for powerful local rulers and their families, acting with a considerable degree of autonomy, in a period and in a region where there is, so far, no evidence of palatial centers. The example of Voudeni, where two monumental chamber tombs with lavish offerings stand out from the rest, seems to indicate that the social status of the deceased was not necessarily connected to a specific tomb type, i.e. the tholos tomb. Moreover, while none of the tholos tombs at Achaea can be considered as monumental, they do constitute a distinct category of sepulchral structures, both in a semiological level, as well as in terms of size, technical expertise and construction cost.
The choice of a geographically remote, almost isolated, location gives rise to reasonable questions. however, the available data both from the tholos tombs and the neighboring settlements in the region are more than adequate to make us believe that the conditions in the region facilitated the, seemingly unexpected, existence here of two tholos tombs such as those at Rhodia. The dense network of prehistoric sites, in conjunction with the presence of the cemeteries and the tholos tombs must have been associated with social groups that were in control of the agricultural production, as well as the overland routes and natural passes that connect Achaea’s coastal plain with its mountainous hinterland to this day. The tombs at Rhodia reflect the existence of exactly such a group, or groups, and their leaders, who had not only the will but also the means to construct such burial monuments that stand out both in a practical and a symbolic level.
Οι δύο θολωτοί τάφοι της Ροδιάς, στην περιοχή του Καταρράκτη Φαρών Αχαΐας ανακαλύφθηκαν το 1956 από τον αρχαιολόγο Νικόλαο Ζαφειρόπουλο. Έμειναν γνωστοί στη βιβλιογραφία χάρη στο 'θησαυρό των Φαρών', δηλαδή στην ομάδα των δέκα χάλκινων και ασημένιων όπλων, εργαλείων και αγγείων που βρέθηκαν στο χώρο έξω από τον περίβολο του μεγαλύτερου θολωτού τάφου. Κατά τη διάρκεια των ετών 2002-2006 πραγματοποιήθηκαν εργασίες συντήρησης, στερέωσης και ανάδειξης του αρχαιολογικού χώρου, οπότε και αποκαλύφθηκαν πέντε κιβωτιόσχημοι τάφοι και ένας λάκκος σε μικρή απόσταση από τους θολωτούς. Με βάση την τυπολογία των τάφων και τα ευρήματα, σε συνδυασμό και με το θησαυρό των Φαρών, οι τάφοι χρονολογούνται από την ΥΕ ΙΙ έως την ΥΕ ΙΙΙΑ2-ΥΕ ΙΙΙΒ1 περίοδο. Η μελέτη βασίζεται στο σύνολο των παλαιών και νέων δεδομένων (χωροταξία, αρχιτεκτονική, ευρήματα, ταφικά έθιμα), και έχει στόχο να τονίσει τη σημασία της περιοχής του Καταρράκτη στην Αχαΐα κατά την πρώιμη μυκηναϊκή περίοδο.
Museum. The implementation of the 3D exhibition was carried out between September 2014 and October 2015 as part of the
“Creation of a digital, virtual exhibition in Patras’ New Museum, using Information and Communication technologies”
project. The application comprised the creation of short videos using 3D digital animation presented on screens placed in the
corresponding spots in the exhibition halls. Eight videos were created in all, each presenting one significant monument or
site in Patras and western Achaea. The short videos present the Roman Odeon, Stadium, Aqueduct, Bath and Bridge of
Patras, the diachronic evolution of the city, the prehistoric citadel at Teichos Dymaion and the Mycenaean settlement at
Chalandritsa. The 3D digital models were based on a combination of existing archaeological documentation with new
photographic data and extensive 4K aerial footage, 3D modeling and rendering.
Architectural remains of a substantial EH settlement have been brought to light, both within and outside the citadel, dating to the EH II and EH III periods.
An interesting assemblage of pottery with incised and impressed decoration was also found that relates to the Cetina type pottery of the late 3rd millennium BC.
The new evidence promotes our knowledge concerning the Early Helladic occupation at Teichos Dymaion, putting it within the wider context of central-eastern Mediterrannean network of contacts.
in print Α΄ ΘΕΜΑΤΙΚΟΣ ΤΟΜΟΣ ΔΗΜΟΣΙΕΥΣΗΣ ΠΡΟΪΣΤΟΡΙΚΩΝ ΚΑΙ ΚΛΑΣΙΚΩΝ ΣΩΣΤΙΚΩΝ ΑΝΑΣΚΑΦΙΚΩΝ ΕΡΓΑΣΙΩΝ ΕΦΟΡΕΙΩΝ ΑΡΧΑΙΟΤΗΤΩΝ, ΤΜΗΜΑ ΠΡΟΪΣΤΟΡΙΚΩΝ ΚΑΙ ΚΛΑΣΙΚΩΝ ΧΩΡΩΝ, ΜΝΗΜΕΙΩΝ & ΑΡΧ/ΚΩΝ ΕΡΓΩΝ, Δ/ΝΣΗ ΠΡΟΪΣΤΟΡΙΚΩΝ ΚΑΙ ΚΛΑΣΙΚΩΝ ΑΡΧΑΙΟΤΗΤΩΝ, ΓΕΝΙΚΗ Δ/ΝΣΗ ΑΡΧ/ΤΩΝ ΚΑΙ ΠΟΛΙΤΙΣΤΙΚΗΣ ΚΛΗΡΟΝΟΜΙΑΣ
Conference Presentations by Michalis Gazis
three centuries AD the city underwent a complete urban planning, commercial, economic, social and aesthetic transformation; specialised workshops and craftspeople were responsible for the realization of
major infrastructure projects (the harbor, bridges, retaining walls etc) and buildings associated with public spectacles (the Stadium and the Odeon). Among the various craftsmen, the mosaics workshops stand
out, since the archaeological research/excavations have brought to light more than 200 rooms with mosaic floors in the heart of the Roman city, both in public buildings as well as in luxurious private houses and
private burial chambers. The identification of common features in the stylistic and construction details of some of the mosaic floors raises the question whether those can be attributed to specific workshops. In an
attempt to formulate answers to this question this paper focuses on six main research axes: 1. Mapping of the mosaic floors within the urban context of the Roman city: location of the public and private houses with
mosaics, in combination with the conscious choice of the decorative repertoire, according to the city's urban quarters [mythological, everyday life, games-sports, dedicatory, ξένια (gifts mainly to the house'
guests but also to the Gods etc)]. 2. Inscriptions on mosaic floors (names of individuals depicted, proverbs and words of advice, honorary inscriptions): inscription interpretation, identification of tessellation
techniques in relation to the inscriptions' symbolism. 3. Recognition of tessellation techniques (composition analyses, dimensions, cutting methods) and quantification. 4. Evidence of ancient repairs and
modifications of mosaic floors throughout the period of use of the buildings, based on the archaeological data. 5. Differences in the stylistic rendering of similar themes and motifs. 6. Quantification of the use of
popular geometric motifs in combination with construction details. A synthesis of the data along the axes described above, beyond viewing the mosaics as works of art, tells us stories about the people and the city
itself: the personalities and activities of owners/ clients, the artisans "hiding" behind the various decorative themes of mosaic floors, as well as different aspects of city life.
Konstantina Aktypi - Michalis Gazis
The Mycenaean cemetery at Rhodia (formerly Bouga) is located ca. 30 km. southeast of Patras, 3 km. south-southwest of Katarraktis (formerly Lopesi). The tombs are built on the steep slope of the small mountain called Bogovouni on a location that offers unhindered view of most of the Western Achaean plain and part of the semi-mountainous area. This paper presents a comprehensive picture of this important prehistoric cemetery that includes two tholos tombs, five cist graves and one pit. Our work was based on the results of the original excavation by N. zapheiropoulos in 1956, as well as on additional data that came to light during the restoration work of the period 2002-2006 and more recently as a result of urgent rescue excavation after looting incidents (2013-2014).
The tholos tombs A and B were constructed in close proximity to each other, making use of the local grayish limestone following the corbelling technique. In addition to the different orientation of their dromoi and chambers, the two tholos tombs also differ in a number of architectural features, which are analysed in the paper. The chamber of tholos A has a diameter of 3.95 m., while the rather badly preserved chamber of tholos B has a diameter of 4.80 m.-
5.30 m. A stone-built peribolos (enclosure) was built around the chamber of tholos B in order to support the tumulus that was covering the tholos. A burial pit was located beneath the floor of the chamber, after a looting incident, containing the skeletal remains of at least one adult individual (under study by O. A. Jones).
In very close proximity to the two tholos tombs and on a slightly higher level a total of five cist graves (two slab cists and three built cist) and one pit were excavated in 2003. The graves were apparently looted, the only artefacts found inside them being two pots dating to the Lh II-IIIA period.
An assemblage of ten metal artefacts brought to light by zapheiropoulos’ excavation in relation to tholos B has become known as “the Pharai treasure”. Beside their artistic value, these artefacts are the basis on which the Rhodia cemetery was dated to the Lh II-Lh IIIA1 period. Although it is very doubtful that the “Pharai treasure” can be securely associated with the holdings of tholos tomb B’ s chamber, they nevertheless reflect the presence here of an affluent social group. It remains unclear with which of the known prehistoric settlements in the region should the cemetery at Rhodia be associated. The nearest sites are Agios Athanasios to the south and Agios Georgios to the northwest; two more sites investigated by zapheiropoulos at Pyrgaki and Drakotrypa are further away from Rhodia, with no visual contact to the site.
The tholos tombs at Rhodia notwithstanding, another six tholos tombs have come to light in Western Achaea: at Kallithea, Petroto, Portes, and chalandritsa, the latter badly preserved and still unexcavated. A number of similarities can be seen between the cemeteries at Rhodia and Portes, both in regard to the architectural features of the tholos tombs, as well as the existence of both built and simple cist graves in close proximity to the tholos tombs.
The two tombs at Rhodia belong to the category of small tholos tombs, Pelon’s type A, with a diameter of less than 6 m. Their structural elements indicate that they were probably built by different craftsmen, making use of different techniques and at different time periods. The bad preservation of tholos tomb B can be partly attributed to the probable later use of its chamber or its surroundings, as documented by a series of ceramic finds dating to the Byzantine period.
Small sized tholos tombs were in all probability intended for powerful local rulers and their families, acting with a considerable degree of autonomy, in a period and in a region where there is, so far, no evidence of palatial centers. The example of Voudeni, where two monumental chamber tombs with lavish offerings stand out from the rest, seems to indicate that the social status of the deceased was not necessarily connected to a specific tomb type, i.e. the tholos tomb. Moreover, while none of the tholos tombs at Achaea can be considered as monumental, they do constitute a distinct category of sepulchral structures, both in a semiological level, as well as in terms of size, technical expertise and construction cost.
The choice of a geographically remote, almost isolated, location gives rise to reasonable questions. however, the available data both from the tholos tombs and the neighboring settlements in the region are more than adequate to make us believe that the conditions in the region facilitated the, seemingly unexpected, existence here of two tholos tombs such as those at Rhodia. The dense network of prehistoric sites, in conjunction with the presence of the cemeteries and the tholos tombs must have been associated with social groups that were in control of the agricultural production, as well as the overland routes and natural passes that connect Achaea’s coastal plain with its mountainous hinterland to this day. The tombs at Rhodia reflect the existence of exactly such a group, or groups, and their leaders, who had not only the will but also the means to construct such burial monuments that stand out both in a practical and a symbolic level.
Οι δύο θολωτοί τάφοι της Ροδιάς, στην περιοχή του Καταρράκτη Φαρών Αχαΐας ανακαλύφθηκαν το 1956 από τον αρχαιολόγο Νικόλαο Ζαφειρόπουλο. Έμειναν γνωστοί στη βιβλιογραφία χάρη στο 'θησαυρό των Φαρών', δηλαδή στην ομάδα των δέκα χάλκινων και ασημένιων όπλων, εργαλείων και αγγείων που βρέθηκαν στο χώρο έξω από τον περίβολο του μεγαλύτερου θολωτού τάφου. Κατά τη διάρκεια των ετών 2002-2006 πραγματοποιήθηκαν εργασίες συντήρησης, στερέωσης και ανάδειξης του αρχαιολογικού χώρου, οπότε και αποκαλύφθηκαν πέντε κιβωτιόσχημοι τάφοι και ένας λάκκος σε μικρή απόσταση από τους θολωτούς. Με βάση την τυπολογία των τάφων και τα ευρήματα, σε συνδυασμό και με το θησαυρό των Φαρών, οι τάφοι χρονολογούνται από την ΥΕ ΙΙ έως την ΥΕ ΙΙΙΑ2-ΥΕ ΙΙΙΒ1 περίοδο. Η μελέτη βασίζεται στο σύνολο των παλαιών και νέων δεδομένων (χωροταξία, αρχιτεκτονική, ευρήματα, ταφικά έθιμα), και έχει στόχο να τονίσει τη σημασία της περιοχής του Καταρράκτη στην Αχαΐα κατά την πρώιμη μυκηναϊκή περίοδο.
Museum. The implementation of the 3D exhibition was carried out between September 2014 and October 2015 as part of the
“Creation of a digital, virtual exhibition in Patras’ New Museum, using Information and Communication technologies”
project. The application comprised the creation of short videos using 3D digital animation presented on screens placed in the
corresponding spots in the exhibition halls. Eight videos were created in all, each presenting one significant monument or
site in Patras and western Achaea. The short videos present the Roman Odeon, Stadium, Aqueduct, Bath and Bridge of
Patras, the diachronic evolution of the city, the prehistoric citadel at Teichos Dymaion and the Mycenaean settlement at
Chalandritsa. The 3D digital models were based on a combination of existing archaeological documentation with new
photographic data and extensive 4K aerial footage, 3D modeling and rendering.
Architectural remains of a substantial EH settlement have been brought to light, both within and outside the citadel, dating to the EH II and EH III periods.
An interesting assemblage of pottery with incised and impressed decoration was also found that relates to the Cetina type pottery of the late 3rd millennium BC.
The new evidence promotes our knowledge concerning the Early Helladic occupation at Teichos Dymaion, putting it within the wider context of central-eastern Mediterrannean network of contacts.
in print Α΄ ΘΕΜΑΤΙΚΟΣ ΤΟΜΟΣ ΔΗΜΟΣΙΕΥΣΗΣ ΠΡΟΪΣΤΟΡΙΚΩΝ ΚΑΙ ΚΛΑΣΙΚΩΝ ΣΩΣΤΙΚΩΝ ΑΝΑΣΚΑΦΙΚΩΝ ΕΡΓΑΣΙΩΝ ΕΦΟΡΕΙΩΝ ΑΡΧΑΙΟΤΗΤΩΝ, ΤΜΗΜΑ ΠΡΟΪΣΤΟΡΙΚΩΝ ΚΑΙ ΚΛΑΣΙΚΩΝ ΧΩΡΩΝ, ΜΝΗΜΕΙΩΝ & ΑΡΧ/ΚΩΝ ΕΡΓΩΝ, Δ/ΝΣΗ ΠΡΟΪΣΤΟΡΙΚΩΝ ΚΑΙ ΚΛΑΣΙΚΩΝ ΑΡΧΑΙΟΤΗΤΩΝ, ΓΕΝΙΚΗ Δ/ΝΣΗ ΑΡΧ/ΤΩΝ ΚΑΙ ΠΟΛΙΤΙΣΤΙΚΗΣ ΚΛΗΡΟΝΟΜΙΑΣ
three centuries AD the city underwent a complete urban planning, commercial, economic, social and aesthetic transformation; specialised workshops and craftspeople were responsible for the realization of
major infrastructure projects (the harbor, bridges, retaining walls etc) and buildings associated with public spectacles (the Stadium and the Odeon). Among the various craftsmen, the mosaics workshops stand
out, since the archaeological research/excavations have brought to light more than 200 rooms with mosaic floors in the heart of the Roman city, both in public buildings as well as in luxurious private houses and
private burial chambers. The identification of common features in the stylistic and construction details of some of the mosaic floors raises the question whether those can be attributed to specific workshops. In an
attempt to formulate answers to this question this paper focuses on six main research axes: 1. Mapping of the mosaic floors within the urban context of the Roman city: location of the public and private houses with
mosaics, in combination with the conscious choice of the decorative repertoire, according to the city's urban quarters [mythological, everyday life, games-sports, dedicatory, ξένια (gifts mainly to the house'
guests but also to the Gods etc)]. 2. Inscriptions on mosaic floors (names of individuals depicted, proverbs and words of advice, honorary inscriptions): inscription interpretation, identification of tessellation
techniques in relation to the inscriptions' symbolism. 3. Recognition of tessellation techniques (composition analyses, dimensions, cutting methods) and quantification. 4. Evidence of ancient repairs and
modifications of mosaic floors throughout the period of use of the buildings, based on the archaeological data. 5. Differences in the stylistic rendering of similar themes and motifs. 6. Quantification of the use of
popular geometric motifs in combination with construction details. A synthesis of the data along the axes described above, beyond viewing the mosaics as works of art, tells us stories about the people and the city
itself: the personalities and activities of owners/ clients, the artisans "hiding" behind the various decorative themes of mosaic floors, as well as different aspects of city life.
Από το 2013 έως και το 2017 οι γράφοντες ολοκλήρωσαν δύο νέες κηρύξεις στους αρχαιολογικούς χώρους Μιτόπολης και Αγίου Γεωργίου Ροδιάς, που εκκρεμούσαν για χρόνια, καθώς και πέντε αναοριοθετήσεις σημαντικών αρχαιολογικών χώρων της Αχαΐας (στα Σπαλιαρέικα, στην Κρήνη-Πετρωτό-Σαραβάλι, στη Ρακίτα, στον Άγιο Γεώργιο ή Μπρούμα και στην αρχαία Κερύνεια). Για τις αναοριοθετήσεις αυτές εκκρεμούσαν διορθώσεις των παλαιών στοιχείων που είχαν καταγραφεί με το προβολικό σύστημα HΑΤT, ενώ μερικές από αυτές έπρεπε να οριοθετηθούν εκ νέου, ακολουθώντας πλέον ευδιάκριτα φυσικά ή τεχνητά όρια. Επίσης, κρίθηκε αναγκαίο να μειωθούν και ως προς το συνολικό εμβαδό τους, όπου αυτό ήταν εφικτό, σύμφωνα άλλωστε και με τις οδηγίες του Υπουργείου. Κάθε μία από τις παραπάνω περιπτώσεις αποτέλεσε αντικείμενο λεπτομερειακής επιστημονικής μελέτης και εφ’ όλης της ύλης έρευνας.
Η Βούντενη είναι μία από τις ελάχιστες μυκηναϊκές θέσεις της Αχαΐας όπου έχουν εντοπιστεί και ανασκαφεί τόσο ο οικισμός, όσο και το νεκροταφείο, το οποίο μάλιστα παρέμεινε κατά κανόνα ασύλητο. Η ανασκαφική έρευνα των ετών 1988-2008 έφερε στο φως 78 λαξευτούς θαλαμοειδείς τάφους και σημαντικό μέρος του γειτονικού οικισμού. Τα στοιχεία που παρουσιάζονται στο παρόν άρθρο αποτελούν μια προκαταρκτική μελέτη που αφορά στις ενδείξεις για χρήση του νεκροταφείου κυρίως μετά την Μυκηναϊκή περίοδο, δίνοντας έμφαση στα ευρήματα των δρόμων και των θαλάμων. Τα δεδομένα μιλούν για τις ιστορίες των μόνιμων «κατοίκων» του νεκροταφείου, δηλ. των νεκρών, αντανακλούν όμως παράλληλα και τις ιστορίες των περαστικών, δηλ. των ζωντανών. Περιγράφονται τέσσερις κατηγορίες επανάχρησης: τάφοι που χρησιμοποιήθηκαν ως εργαστήρια ή καταλύματα, περιπτώσεις λαθραίας εισόδου στους τάφους, χρήση δρόμων για ταφές, και διάφορα ευρήματα από τους δρόμους, τα οποία θα μπορέσουν ίσως να γίνουν αφορμή για περαιτέρω συζητήσεις σχετικά είτε με την επανάχρηση των τάφων είτε με περιπτώσεις προγονολατρείας.
Η εικόνα που προκύπτει δηλώνει μια περιορισμένη χρήση του νεκροταφείου μετά το τέλος της Μυκηναϊκής περιόδου. Υπάρχουν λίγες ενδείξεις για ταφικές πρακτικές αμέσως μετά την οριστική εγκατάλειψη του νεκροταφείου από τους Μυκηναίους, ενώ στις ακόμα υστερότερες περιόδους μιλάμε πιθανότατα για περιστασιακή χρήση του χώρου. Αυτό που πρέπει να τονιστεί είναι η σημασία των ευρη- μάτων των δρόμων για την κατανόηση της χρήσης των τάφων και των ταφικών εθίμων.
for contacts between different regions and emerging trade relationships,
peaking in the Mycenaean palaces and the immediate aftermath of their collapse.
A key focus of this phenomenon has been the appearance of Aegean-style pottery
in the Italian Peninsula, Sicily, and Sardinia, including imports and locally produced
imitations, alongside gray ware which blur the boundaries between Aegean
and indigenous traditions, essentially hybrid ceramic forms.
The Aegean side of the relationship is less well understood and relies on the appearance
of handmade burnished pottery (HBW) in mainland Greece and Crete,
as well as Cyprus in LH IIIB2 (late 13th century B.C.E.). Debate has centered on
whether this represents a mode of production reflecting social and economic collapse,
the influx of foreign workers, or indeed a slave class. Whatever the case,
one matter is clear, that however we view the nature of contacts between these
cultures, the process of acculturation examined through material culture requires
local contextualization.
Teichos Dymaion, an acropolis harbor at the entrance of the Gulf of Patras, appears
vital to our understanding of this relationship. Indeed, as the first landfall
for ships coming from Italy, Teichos Dymaion was pivotal to trade and exchange
between the Peloponnese and central Mediterranean. The site contains very rich
deposits of HBW and gray-ware imports alongside canonical Mycenaean style
pottery. The coarse, low-fired HBW stands in stark contrast to the high-fired calcareous
clays of the local Mycenaean repertoire.
The implications of these contrasting ceramic worlds coexisting at the site of
Teichos Dymaion are explored through an integrated macroscopic, petrographic,
and microstructural study, leading to the determination of the nature and source
of raw materials along with the technological practices that characterise their production.
A comparison of contrasting techniques of pottery production with communities
of practice in both the Aegean and Italy is used to discuss population diversity at this key harbor settlement.
Voudeni, ca. 6km from the center of Patras, is the most comprehensively excavated Mycenaean site in Achaea and one of the very few sites in the region where both the settlement and the cemetery have been located and excavated, the latter with most of the tombs not looted.
The data presented in this paper is a preliminary study of indications for the post-Mycenaean use of the cemetery, especially of the finds from the dromoi and chambers. The data illustrate the stories of the permanent occupants of the site, i.e. of the deceased, but also reflect the stories of the passers-by, i.e. of the living.
The general picture that emerges is that of a limited use of the cemetery area in periods post dating the Mycenaean. There is partial evidence of burial practices shortly after the final use of the cemetery, with even later instances suggesting nothing more than an incidental presence. The finds from the dromoi are of particular interest for understanding the use of the tombs and the burial customs.
The ongoing study of the tombs at Voudeni will surely bring to light new data with regard to the last burials that took place in the area. The evidence so far indicates a strong presence of the Submycenaean period in the area, probably strong as well while approaching the Protogeometric period. Is there a break between the two phases or is it continuity? The evidence from the settlement at Voudeni will probably answer this question.
The present study allows us today to have an in depth understanding of the environmental problems of the region of Western Greece, and also gives the possibility to face them with greater caution, and responsibility. At the same time it demonstrates the significance of the “wet factor” in the economic development of robust towns and societies, in general.
This paper presents the little known evidence concerning the EH habitation at Teichos Dymaion.Excavations by E. Mastrokostas in the 1960's have brought to light the first data indicating the presence of a significant EH phase. More recent research, however, (1998-2009) has greatly enriched our knowledge of the EBA at Teichos Dymaion.The latest data have been located on the slope outside the fortification and are the first solid proof of a substantial EH settlement on the N-NW side of the hill. The most remarcable new find was a pertly preserved orthogonal EHII building directly beneath the fortification's NW corner.A presentation of the architectural elements and of the pottery is used to form a preliminary picture of the EH habitation at Teichos Dymaion and a brief outline of the site's position within its geographical context.
International Archaeology Day is held each year on the third Saturday of October. International Archaeology Day is a celebration of archaeology and the thrill of discovery.
The Ephorate of Antiquities of Achaea, Ministry of Culture and Sports, Patras, Greece will celebrate this year’s International Archaeology Day with a two-session educational event that will be held on October 16th and 20th, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the Mycenaean archaeological park of Voudeni, Patras. The educational event addresses to school groups of students aged 10-12 years and is provided free of charge, pre-registration being required.
Archaeologists, conservators and drawing specialists will be on hand to talk with the students about the science of Archaeology and explain excavation practices, dating methods and issues of conservation. The students will be subsequently guided into becoming themselves “archaeologists for a day”. Each one will be assigned a specific role (archaeologist, conservator, worker, drawing specialist, photographer) and participate in a simulated dig, which will be held in purpose-made “trenches”. Each trench holds copies of artefacts suggestive of the Mycenaean period. Upon finding these artefacts, the children will learn how to record the finds and their position in the grid, while being encouraged to analyze their meaning and purpose of use and will practice on basic conservation methods.
Ενότητα Α. «Γνωριμία με τον Μυκηναϊκό πολιτισμό».
Ενότητα Β. «Μια ημέρα στο αρχαιολογικό πάρκο της Βούντενης». Οι μαθητές με τη βοήθεια εποπτικού υλικού και με την περιήγηση στον αρχαιολογικό χώρο γνωρίζουν τις καθημερινές ασχολίες και τα έθιμα ταφής των «Μυκηναίων της Βούντενης».
Ενότητα Γ. «Αρχαιολόγοι για μια ημέρα». Το πρόγραμμα επικεντρώνεται στην Αρχαιολογία. Οι μαθητές, αφού περιηγηθούν στον αρχαιολογικό χώρο, θα ακούσουν για την επιστήμη της Αρχαιολογίας από τους ίδιους τους αρχαιολόγους.
Στη συνέχεια, μέσα από ένα βιωματικό εργαστήρι, θα διενεργήσουν μία μικρή ανασκαφική έρευνα.
Τείχος Δυμαίων:
Με την καθοδήγηση των υπεύθυνων αρχαιολόγων, οι μαθητές αρχικά γνωρίζουν την Ακρόπολη του Τείχους Δυμαίων και στη συνέχεια λαμβάνουν μέρος στο εκπαιδευτικό παιχνίδι του «Κρυμμένου Θησαυρού».
article presents a preliminary study of part of the ceramic assemblage. The study has produced interesting new data and insights regarding the production and consumption of HBW, and of wheel made grey ware, which was identified for the first time. The analysis revealed two new unique key elements: Firstly, its quantity, which is significantly higher in relation to all the known sites in the Aegean, and, secondly, the duration of its use, which lasts, albeit at a smaller scale, until the late 12th century BCE. Reference is also made to recent petrographic analyses, which focused on the technological parameters of the production of HBW and identified significant differences from the dominant Mycenaean ceramic tradition.