Catalhoeyuk Excavations: The 2009-2017 Seasons

This volume discusses the main excavations at Neolithic Çatalhöyük East undertaken from 2009 to 2017, focusing on the layout and social geography of the settlement and the elaborate art and symbolism within a secure architectural and depositional context. It also describes the work conducted in the GDN Area on the later phases of occupation, using detailed dating using Bayesian modeling to understand the organization of the settlement. The descriptions of excavated units, features, and buildings incorporate results from the analyses of animal bone, chipped stone, groundstone, shell, ceramics, phytoliths, micromorphology, and other materials.

Format: Hardback
Length: 700 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2023
Publisher: British Institute of Archaeology at Ankara

This comprehensive volume delves into the extensive excavations conducted at Neolithic Çatalhöyük East between 2009 and 2017. Renowned for its vast size, intricate symbolism, and remarkable wall paintings, the site has a long and rich history of excavation. Spanning the final phases of excavation led by Ian Hodder in the North and South Areas, as well as the GDN Area, this volume provides a detailed account of the work undertaken.

The primary objective of these excavations was to unravel the intricate layout and social geography of the settlement, encompassing both houses and open areas. By contextualizing the elaborate art and symbolism within a secure architectural and depositional framework, the researchers aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the community's living conditions.

The excavation and conservation methods employed are meticulously described, along with the comprehensive campaign of geophysical prospection. Special attention is given to detailed dating using Bayesian modeling, which has significantly revised our understanding of the settlement's organization. This approach sheds new light on the contemporaneity of buildings, the continuity and disruptions in house occupation, and the overall dynamics of the site.

A fuller comprehension of the variability of houses and burials has been achieved, revealing how these variations align with social differentiation. The descriptions of excavated units, features, and buildings incorporate a wealth of data derived from the analysis of animal bone, chipped stone, groundstone, shell, ceramics, phytoliths, micromorphology, and other materials. This integration of diverse types of data and multiple perspectives within the excavation team mirrors the collaborative interpretation process that unfolded during the excavation and post-excavation phases.

By presenting these findings in a comprehensive and accessible manner, this volume contributes significantly to our understanding of Neolithic societies and their cultural practices. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and enthusiasts alike, shedding light on the rich tapestry of human history and civilization.

Dimension: 305 x 203 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781912090204