THE FINAL NEOLITHIC-EARLY MINOAN I/IIA SETTLEMENT HISTORY OF THE VROKASTRO AREA, MIRABELLO,EASTERN CRETE

Abstract

This paper discusses the FN-EM I/IA settlement pattern along the west-central coast of the Gulf of Mirabello in eastern Crete. Survey has revealed a settlement pattern that is widespread by EM I, but concentrated primarily along the coast and around a fertile coastal river valley. This pattern is functionally diverse, involving defensive sites, landing-places or harbors, and agricultural/pastoral settlements. The spread of settlement inland during EMI/IA is focused o regional hydrology and routes, and these settlements can be size-ranked. The depth, breadth, and functional diversity of this pattern may reflect a degree of social complexity by EMI-II. This developed settlement pattern could be the result of the stimulus provided by extensive contacts with the Cyclades, and provides a framework for new data concerning trade in bulk (ceramics) across long distances.