A woman buried in Turkey in the Late Copper Age era

The Late Chalcolithic period in İkiztepe, an archaeological site located in the Bafra District of the Samsun Province in northern Turkey, marks an important phase in the prehistoric era of Anatolia. The Chalcolithic, or Copper Age, generally spans from around 4500 to 3300 BCE in Anatolia, with İkiztepe providing crucial insights into that transformative period, especially towards its later stages. Here’s a detailed overview of this era and culture:

Geographic and Environmental Context

İkiztepe is situated near the Black Sea coast, strategically positioned at the confluence of rivers and fertile plains. This location facilitated agricultural development, trade, and cultural exchanges. The region's climate would have been conducive to various farming practices, supporting a diverse range of crops and domestic animals.

Archaeological Discoveries

Excavations at İkiztepe have revealed a wealth of artifacts, settlement patterns, and burial practices that provide a comprehensive image of the Late Chalcolithic lifestyle. Among the most significant finds are pottery, metalwork, tools, and architectural remains.

Settlement and Architecture

The Late Chalcolithic settlements at İkiztepe are characterized by mudbrick houses with stone foundations, reflecting advancements in construction techniques. The layout suggests a well-organized community, possibly indicating a level of social hierarchy or administrative control. Some structures appear to be communal or public spaces, indicating organized social or religious activities.

Material Culture

Pottery

Pottery from this period is remarkably varied, indicating both utilitarian and artistic purposes. Common forms include bowls, jars, and cooking pots, often decorated with geometric patterns and intricate designs. The quality and style of pottery suggest influences from or exchanges with other cultures, highlighting İkiztepe's role in a broader cultural network.

Metalwork and Tools

One of the defining features of the Chalcolithic period is the use of copper, and İkiztepe is no exception. The inhabitants utilized copper to create tools, weapons, and ornaments, marking a transition from purely stone-based tool technology. Stone tools, however, remain prevalent, particularly for agricultural and domestic purposes.

Textile and Craftsmanship

Although organic materials rarely survive, impressions on clay and associated tools imply sophisticated textile production. Weaving techniques and loom weights found at the site suggest a community well-versed in fabric creation, possibly involving wool, flax, or other fibers.

Economy and Subsistence

The economy during this period was primarily agrarian, supported by the fertile lands around İkiztepe. Crops likely included wheat, barley, and legumes, complemented by the domestication of animals like sheep, goats, cattle, and pigs. The proximity to maritime resources also indicates some level of fishing and shellfish gathering.

Social and Religious Aspects

The complexity of burial practices at İkiztepe suggests a society with distinct social stratifications. Grave goods vary in elaborateness, possibly reflecting the status of the deceased. The presence of figurines and certain ritualistic artefacts implies a developed spiritual or religious system, although specific beliefs remain unclear.

Technological and Cultural Exchanges

The site of İkiztepe exhibits evidence of technological ingenuity and cultural influences, likely arising from regional trade networks. The craftsmanship reflected in metal and pottery work indicates not only local innovation but also the assimilation of techniques from neighboring cultures.

Conclusion

The Late Chalcolithic era at İkiztepe represents a pivotal moment in the prehistoric sequence of Anatolia, marking a period of social complexity, technological advancement, and cultural exchange. It offers a window into the adaptive strategies of ancient communities as they navigated environmental challenges and opportunities presented by their geographic location, laying foundational aspects for subsequent Bronze Age civilizations in the region.