A footnote on the archaeology of power: animal bones from a Mycenaean chamber tomb at Galatas, NE Peloponnese

Abstract

The zooarchaeological remains from a Mycenaean chamber tomb (LH II B–IIIc early) at Apatheia, Galatas, NE Peloponnese, are analysed and discussed. The bones offer evidence for mortuary dining ritual and for the ritual deposition of dog skeletons. The latter practice in Mycenaean burials is discussed and, contrary to previous interpretation, is connected to the social and ideological role of hunting in Mycenaean society.