Explore project
Aims of the research
The archaeological research at Paliambela Kolindros is a multi-dimensional programme that seeks to reconstruct prehistoric life in the area and to link the distant past with contemporary reality. The aims of the programme are analysed within the framework of the themes listed below:
 
Research questions

The research questions are concerned with the modern reorientation of archaeological research, including:

  • the reconstruction of the Neolithic environment and the Neolithic farming economy
  • the characteristics of the daily lives of the inhabitants of a Neolithic settlement
  • the emergence of the "village" and the "household" as basic social units in Neolithic Greece
  • the planning characteristics of early farming and husbandry settlements in the area of Central Macedonia, and their development during the earlier phases of the Neolithic
  • the establishment of local styles of Neolithic pottery that present important particularities in relation to both Thessaly and Central Macedonia
  • the collection of what is, for the region, an important amount of bioarchaeological and palaeoenvironmental data
 
Methodological interests

The excavation at Paliambela is an important opportunity for the systematic and particularly high specification University-run archaeological study of the field using modern excavation techniques and analytical capabilities. An emphasis has been placed on extending the use of digital computer technologies at the level of excavation records, and on the laboratory analysis of the archaeological material.

 
Transferring knowledge

The connection of the excavation with the local inhabitants was sought right from the start of the programme, so that they would realise the prospects the Neolithic site would offer the place and thus "adopt" the archaeological space. By means of educational programmes, talks and exhibitions, the programme is attempting to:

  • make the findings of the archaeological research public
  • sensitise the local community to the issues of protection and display of cultural heritage
  • build a supportive and interactive relationship between the agencies of archaeological research and the local community
 
Linking the past with the present

The Neolithic site at Paliambela represents the first settlement of agricultural and stock farmers in the area, which even today preserves an intensely agricultural character. At a primary level, the diachronic review of settlement in the area aims at the creation of a new relationship between the local community, and the recent and distant past. At a secondary level, the participation of the excavation at Paliambela in the TEMPER programme includes the site in a unified network of areas with traces of prehistoric settlement, which will constitute an example of common European and Mediterranean descent.

 
Creation of an archaeological park

A long-term aim is the creation of a multi-dimensional cultural space, which will upgrade the modern village and create development prospects. Thus, a space to display the archaeological work and aspects of pre-industrial farming life is planned, so that the importance of the prehistoric farming settlement is understood by the visitors in a tangible and vivid way. The programme also seeks the active involvement of the inhabitants with the archaeological space, and the attraction of visitors of all ages and interests to the area.

 

Introduction | Home | News | Publications | Access
Contact | Creation | Links | Site map
© 2004 Paliambela Excavation