Remains of Iron Age Settlement Found Near Split

19.05.2024
History and culture

In Stobreč, near Split, archaeologists have made a significant discovery: the remains of the Iron Age settlement. They date back 2500 to 3000 years. Led by Marina Ugarković from the Institute of Archaeology, the excavation revealed prehistoric stone structures linked to an ancient settlement that predates the known historical site of Epetion.

The site also uncovered rooms from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Late Antiquity periods, along with numerous artifacts, primarily ceramics, indicating a long history of habitation. “There is an impressive collection of artifacts, mostly ceramics, but also items from other periods, with a significant focus on the Early Iron Age and Late Hellenism.”, says excavation manager Marina Ugarković. These findings are the first concrete evidence of a prehistoric settlement in Stobreč.

The excavation has provided a wealth of movable archaeological material, including various artifacts that highlight the continuous human activity in this area over thousands of years. The artifacts offer a glimpse into the daily lives, culture, and craftsmanship of the people who lived there during different historical periods.

This discovery is crucial for understanding the local history of Stobreč. Also, it will tell us more about prehistoric settlements across the Mediterranean region. It provides insight into the early human occupation and the evolution of communities over millennia.

This ongoing excavation is a collaborative effort between the Institute of Archaeology, the Kantharos company from Hvar, and the Conservation Department in Split. The project aims to uncover more details about the settlement’s structure, its inhabitants, and their way of life.

Exploring Ancient Croatia's Split Region

The Iron Age in Croatia, particularly in the Split region, was a significant period characterized by the emergence of advanced societies, technological innovations, and cultural developments.

Timeline: The Iron Age in Croatia generally spans from around 1200 BC to the arrival of the Romans in the 1st century BC. This period saw the transition from the Bronze Age, marked by the increasing use of iron for tools and weapons.
Settlements: During the Iron Age, settlements in the Split region were typically hillforts or fortified hilltop settlements known as “gradine.” These settlements were strategically located for defense and often served as centers of economic, social, and political activity.
Culture and Society: The Iron Age in Croatia witnessed the development of distinct cultural groups. Included were the Illyrians, who inhabited the coastal and inland regions of present-day Croatia. These societies engaged in agriculture, animal husbandry, and trade. There is also evidence of contacts with neighboring regions such as Greece and Italy.
Material Culture: Archaeological excavations in the Split region have uncovered artifacts from the Iron Age, including pottery, tools, weapons, and jewelry. These artifacts provide insights into the daily life, technology, and artistic expression of Iron Age communities.
Interaction and Exchange: The Split region, with its coastal location, was part of broader networks of interaction and exchange during the Iron Age. Trade routes connected the Adriatic coast to other Mediterranean regions, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural influences.
Roman Influence: Towards the end of the Iron Age, the influence of the Roman Empire began to extend into the Split region. This period marked the transition from pre-Roman to Roman control, leading to significant changes in governance, economy, and culture.

Unlocking the Mysteries of Ancient Croatia's Iron Age in the Split Region

Spanning from approximately 1200 BC to the advent of Roman influence in the 1st century BC, this era witnessed the emergence of advanced societies and significant cultural exchanges. In the rugged terrain of the Split region, hillforts and fortified settlements, known as “gradine,” served as bastions of community life. They were strategically positioned for defense and commerce alike. These settlements were hubs of agricultural activity, animal husbandry, and craftsmanship. Pottery, tools, weapons, and intricate jewelry were crafted with skillful hands.

The inhabitants of the Split region during the Iron Age were part of broader networks of interaction and exchange. Trade routes connected the Adriatic coast to distant lands. This facilitated the flow of goods, ideas, and cultural influences, enriching the local tapestry with diverse elements. The Illyrians left their imprint on the region. They were engaging in vibrant exchanges with neighboring civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans.

As the Iron Age progressed, the specter of Roman influence loomed large, marking a transition from independent pre-Roman societies to integration within the Roman Empire. This period brought about profound changes in governance, economy, and culture, reshaping the fabric of life in the region. Today, ongoing archaeological excavations in the Split region continue to unveil new insights into this fascinating period of Croatian history. They shed light on the intricacies of Iron Age societies and their enduring legacy in the Mediterranean landscape.

Significance of the Found Remains of Iron Age Settlement

The discovery of the remains of an Iron Age settlement in Stobreč represents a groundbreaking find with far-reaching significance. Situated near Split, Croatia, this archaeological site provides tangible evidence of early human habitation in the region. The uncovering of prehistoric stone structures and artifacts offers invaluable insights into the lifestyles, technologies, and cultural practices of ancient communities.

This discovery also contributes to the broader knowledge of prehistoric settlements in the Mediterranean region. By piecing together the puzzle of the past, archaeologists can illuminate the trajectories of human civilization.