Absolute chronology of the Beaker phenomenon North of the Tagus estuary: demographic and social implications

João Luís Cardoso

doi:10.3989/tp.2014.12124

Abstract

The complexity of the Beaker phenomenon in the Tagus estuary does not fit well with the model of three successive groups (International, Palmela and Incised Groups). The above seems to result from the nature of the settlements rather than from its chronology, as all three groups are present during the second half of the 3rd millennium BC. Therefore while artefacts of the International Group predominate in the fortified sites, the Incised Group appears almost exclusively in open sites. The Palmela Group seems of minor importance, at least in the north region of the Tagus River estuary. The remarkable antiquity of Beaker pottery found in the FM hut at Leceia (which dates from the 2 nd quarter of the 3rd millennium BC, re-confirmed by AMS dating) has parallels both in the North and South of Portugal, as well as in Spain. Thus we conclude that in the Lower Estremadura (one of the most important regions in Europe for the discussion of the origin and diffusion of Beaker “phenomenon”), the Beaker social formation with its own distinct cultural characteristics, coexisted with local Chalcolithic cultures, although never merged with them.

Highlights

Research about Beaker “phenomenon” in Portuguese Estremadura underwent a significant advance with the pioneering work of J
The results shows that the main utilisation of the site occurs along the last quarter of the 3rd millennium BC
In light of the information presented we can conclude that incised productions are dominant at the sites of Leceia (EN hut), Freiria, and the funerary cave of Ponte da Lage, where they were produced throughout the 2nd half of the 3rd millennium BC and extended even into the beginning of the 2nd millennium BC

Summary

Introduction

Research about Beaker “phenomenon” in Portuguese Estremadura underwent a significant advance with the pioneering work of J. This contribution provided a model for its internal phasing which is still accepted by the generality of archaeologists. The model’s coherence derives from the archaeological record itself, and despite not being sustained by new radiocarbon dating it has remained until now broadly operative. The model postulated that Beaker sequence began with vessels decorated by a stippling technique, involving a predominance of maritime AOO Beakers decorated with alternately-filled horizontal bands (“herringbone” pattern), associated to other vessels such as shoulder pots.

Objectives

Discussion

Conclusion