AEGEAN AND CYPRUS IN THE EARLY HOLOCENE: BROTHERS OR DISTANT RELATIVES?

Abstract

This paper discusses neolithisation procedures in the Aegean in comparison with those in Cyprus under the light of recent excavations in both areas within the last decade, and speculates the possibility of placing the eastern Mediterranean island cultures under comparable stratigraphic horizons. It is observed that the similarities of the earliest phase are interrupted about the middle of 8th mil. B.C., when Cyprus "imports" Preceramic Neolithic from the Near East, while the Aegean follows slow indigenous procedures of neolithisation. Despite difference in subsistence economies and group concepts, some similarities are though indicated regarding archaistic features in architecture and burial practices, and give the incentive to discuss problems of isolation and conservatism.