Original scientific paper
Early medieval use of late antique hilltop sites, another possible answer to riddle?
Tina Milavec
; Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Arts, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
Abstract
At several hilltop sites in Slovenia an early Medieval occupation phase, dated approximately between late 8th-11th c., can be detected above the ruins of late antique settlements. It consists mostly of abundant metal small finds, often of a military or equestrian nature. The lack of recognizable dwelling buildings or fortifications makes it difficult to find an overreaching explanation for this phenomenon. Various interpretations have been offered so far, from military sites, to sacred places and ordinary settlements, but no interpretation fits all possible scenarios. In this paper I am considering such sites in western Slovenia, in Posočje / Isonzo river valley. This region represents the hinterland of Friuli and the area of communication between Friuli and Carniola. In view of the turbulent political events of the early Medieval centuries in northern Italy and the regular contact with regions north and east of the Alps it is possible such sites played a role in the organisation of defence of Friuli.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
329691
URI
Publication date:
31.12.2024.
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