A Bioarchaeological Analysis of Neolithic Alepotrypa Cave, Greece

Description

This work offers a bioarchaeological study of the Late and Final Neolithic Age site of Alepotrypa Cave, one of the richest Neolithic sites in Greece. It is of special importance because it belongs to the later phases of the Neolithic, when transformations were fully developed, and it contains both habitation debris and an uncommon variety of mortuary loci. Four main aspects of analysis are undertaken. First, the palaeodemographic and palaeopathological profile of the Neolithic population is reconstructed. The present sample of 161 individuals provides a robust data base from which to determine the demographic and pathological characteristics of the population, the stresses that it was subjected to, and the interaction between culture, health, and environment. Second, the various burial practices represented at Alepotrypa Cave are examined, and their possible meaning explored. Third, comparative stable isotope evidence offers information on diet. Finally, the results of all these analyses are integrated.