Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Journal of Historical Archaeology and Anthropological Sciences, cilt.8, sa.3, ss.124-129, 2023 (Hakemli Dergi)
This study discusses archaeological research on the Late Chalcolithic to Early Bronze Age cultures in the South Caucasus hilly flank belts, focusing on these societies’ mobility and settlement strategies. The material record and site selection reflect changes in social structures. Pastoralism has played a significant role in Nakhichevan’s history, but detailed records about pastoral activities, mobility patterns, and the evolution of pastoral strategies still need to be included. This study focused on Şorsu Tepe, an archaeological site in the Nakhichevan River Basin. We conducted stratigraphic excavations and sedimentological inquiries to understand the community’s settlement tactics and adaptation strategies. The settlement’s architectural evidence provides insights into past communities’ daily practices, social structures, and organizational patterns. The geographical background of the study area, Nakhichevan, is described, emphasizing its strategic location connecting different regions. The excavation at Şorsu Tepe revealed three stratigraphic levels with distinctive phases, reflecting changing settlement strategies. This research has proposed terms like “Temporary Campsite,” “Seasonal/Temporary Campsite,” and “Long-term Stay/ Seasonal Campsite” to describe the settlement stages. This study highlights the challenges in identifying the distinctions between nomadic and sedentary lifestyles, suggesting that the settlement at Şorsu Tepe could have served as a temporary campsite or summer pasture. In conclusion, this study underscores the significance of mobility and settlement strategies in shaping the cultures of the South Caucasus region during the Late Chalcolithic to Early Bronze Age.