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Dynasties. The First Kingdoms of Prehistoric Europe Exhibition

Dynasties. ‘The First Kingdoms of Prehistoric Europe Exhibition’ is being held at the Archaeological Museum in Alicante until October 2024. The exhibition concentrates on the bronze age cultures of El Argar in the Iberian Peninsula, the Únetice Culture in central Europe and the Otomani-Füzesabony Culture in the Carpathian basin.

By Nick Nutter | Last Updated 2024-05-9 | Titbits and News from the Mare Nostrum

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Dynasties. The First Kingdoms of Prehistoric Europe Exhibition

The Bronze Age: A Time of Trade, Power, and Innovation in Europe

The Bronze Age, spanning roughly from 3300 to 1200 BC, witnessed a significant shift in European prehistory. While copper was readily available, tin, the other crucial component for bronze, was scarce and only found in specific regions. This scarcity fuelled the rise of extensive trade networks across Europe as early as the Early Bronze Age. Control over these resources, as well as transportation routes, became a key factor in the emergence of social stratification, with ruling elites wielding significant power. This era also saw the invention of the sword, a weapon designed specifically for warfare.

Centres of Power and Technological Advancements

Central Europe during the Early Bronze Age was dominated by the Únetice Culture. This period is marked by richly furnished burial mounds like Leubingen and Helmsdorf, highlighting the wealth and status of the elite. The Nebra Sky Disk, a remarkable astronomical tool, further highlights the advanced knowledge possessed by these leaders. Additionally, large hoards of axes discovered from this era suggest the presence of organized armies.

Beyond Central Europe

Hoard of Bronze Axes

While Central Europe flourished, other regions like the Iberian Peninsula (El Argar Culture) and the Carpathian Basin (Otomani-Füzesabony Culture) also witnessed the rise of powerful centres.

A Glimpse into the Past: 'Dynasties' Exhibition

The exhibition, "Dynasties. The First Kingdoms of Prehistoric Europe", is being held at the Museo Arqueológico Provincial de Alicante (MARQ) in Spain, offered a fascinating exploration of these early European power structures. The exhibition, a collaborative effort between MARQ and the State Museum of Prehistory in Halle (Saale), Germany, displays exceptional finds from Central Europe, including a sword from the Nebra Sky Disk hoard. This exhibition built upon the success of previous displays at the British Museum and the Drents Museum Assen.

Highlighting the Nebra Sky Disk

Nebra Sky Disc

The Nebra Sky Disk, discovered near Nebra, Germany, is a true archaeological treasure. Dating back to the Early Bronze Age, this remarkable artifact highlights the astronomical knowledge of the Únetice Culture. Its inclusion in UNESCO's Memory of the World Register in 2013 underscores its cultural significance.

Treasures from Leubingen

Mould and bronze spearhead

Another highlight of the exhibition is the inclusion of grave offerings from the princely tomb of Leubingen. This impressive burial site, excavated in the late 19th century, revealed a wealth of grave goods, including bronze weaponry, gold jewellery, and a Neolithic axe. These exceptional finds, along with other loans, provided a window into the lives and practices of the Early Bronze Age elite.

The Siret Collection

For over 50 years, Luis Siret and his brother Henri Siret investigated Neolithic, Chalcolithic and Bronze Age sites in Andalucia, including the El Argar site in Almeria. Many pieces from the El Argar and La Fuente sites are being displayed for the first time in Spain at the 'Dynasties' Exhibition.

Visiting the 'Dynasties' Exhibition

The "Dynasties" Exhibition can be visited at the Archaeological Museum in Alicante, Spain. The exhibition runs until October 2024. The museum is open Tuesday until Sunday. More information can be found at the Alicante Archaeological Museum website