A Late Helladic III A1 deposit from Kontopigado, Alimos and processes of Mycenaeanization at Athens

Abstract

Important new evidence for the pottery phase LH III A1, rarely represented in stratified settlement deposits in Attica and southern Greece, has come from the excavations in Kontopigado, Alimos; it is discussed here in detail. The pottery, part of a dump discarded in a shallow pit, is characterized by a variety of wares and contrasts strongly with pottery traditions on the site in the subsequent Mycenaean occupation phases. The most striking feature is the almost complete absence of Mycenaean pattern painted pottery, a ware that by LH III A1 was already common in many regions. The changes observed in the pottery consumed in the immediately following phase are discussed with regard to the general processes of Mycenaeanization. Moreover, several regional features, characteristic of the LH III A2 and LH III B pottery at Athens, were continued from LH III A1 either unchanged or were integrated into the new styles.