Radiocarbon dates from the 4th and 3rd millennium in the Southern Caucasus: defining a regional absolute chronology

Abstract

The aim of the present work is towards defining an absolute chronology for the 4th and 3rd millennium of the Southern Caucasus, with particular regards to the Kura-Araxes culture. A presentation on the history of research demonstrates how a fragmentation of the archaeological subject has long hindered the completion of a comprehensive chronological study that takes into consideration both absolute and relative archaeological information. In this study, particular emphasis has been placed on combining the two datasets according to the principles of Bayesian modelling. The majority of the previously published radiocarbon dates have been collected alongside more recently published data. The radiocarbon dates are then classified into coherent phases on the basis of their cultural affiliations, which have been systematically distinguished as per the typological descriptions of their associated material assemblages. Furthermore, new results obtained from the site of Aradetis Orgora (Georgia) are presented in conjunction with the methodology used in their determination. Following a selection based on reliability criteria, the radiocarbon dates are plotted into models using the latest version of OxCal serving to quantifiably estimate the beginning and end of each phase within a chronological sequence spanning from the Late Chalcolithic to the Middle Bronze Age. In conclusion, specific sequences are identified in relation to chrono-typologically defined sub-areas. The results show an occurrence of differing chronological trends within geographically distinct sub-regions of the Southern-Caucasus, as represented by the Kura (North) and Araxes (South) river valleys, which are naturally demarcated by the Lesser Caucasus Range.