Chronology and periodization of the Globular Amphora culture East Lublin Subgroup

Abstract

The Globular Amphora culture East Lublin subgroup was distinguished in the 1950s by Stefan Nosek. The key argument in favour of the distinction involved stone cist graves, having south-eastern affinities. The newly-distinguished taxonomic unit boasted both western and eastern traits. Since 1996, 13 radiocarbon dates have been obtained for nine features: 1 settlement pit, 5 cist graves and 3 pit graves. The dates helped distinguish three chronological sequences and describe inventories of grave finds from particular development phases. By comparing inventories from graves for which radiocarbon dates were available with grave goods from features without such determinations, it was possible to supplement the sets of cultural elements characteristic of successive time intervals with traits to be found solely in the latter. Ultimately, the proposed periodization of Globular Amphora settlement in the eastern Lublin province is made up of three phases: I (‘general Globular Amphora’ horizon – preceding the formation of the East Lublin subgroup) – 3000/2950–2900/2850 BC; II (‘classical’ phase of the East Lublin subgroup) – 2900/2850–2650/2600 BC; III (‘late’ phase of the East Lublin subgroup) – 2650/2600–ca 2400 BC.