Ezero culture
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The Ezero culture, 3300—2700 BC, was a bronze age archaeological culture occupying most of present-day Bulgaria. It presumably takes its name from the Ezero River, which has the city of Varna at its mouth on the Black Sea. The most important archaeological site is said to be near the town of Nova Zagora.
Resting upon the ruins of an earlier copper age culture (apparently the Karanovo Vib culture), the region seems to have been deserted for several centuries before the culture made its presence known. It bears some relationship to the earlier Cernavoda culture just to the north. Settlements were fortified, particularly the one near Nova Zagora.
It is said to be part of the larger Balkan-Danubian complex, a horizon reaching from Troy into Central Europe encompassing the Baden and Cotofeni cultures.
Agriculture is in evidence, along with domestic livestock. There is evidence of grape cultivation. Metallurgy was practiced.
Interpretation of the site is contentious. Within the context of the Kurgan hypothesis, it would represent a fusion of native Old European culture and intrusive Kurgan culture elements. It could also reflect an Anatolian-influenced culture, either coming from Anatolia (in Lord Renfrew's hypothesis), or heading to Asia Minor.
Sources
- J. P. Mallory, "Ezero Culture", Encyclopedia of Indo-European Culture, Fitzroy Dearborn, 1997.
External links
- http://www.archaeology.ro/so_cernav_eng.htm
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