Bernstein in der Bronzezeit

Netzwerke und Interaktion in Europa

Serbe, Benjamin

This publication provides a detailed insight into the distribution mechanisms of amber in Europe during the Bronze Age (2200-800 BCE) using statistical, spatial and network-based analyses. While the concept of the amber road was introduced into archaeological discussions almost a century ago and was considered authoritative for a long time, the current research focus is placed on the idea of a complex exchange system.
This new study is based on archaeological finds of amber from various European countries and enables a reconstruction of the exchange relationships across space and time.
Spatial analyses show the dynamic change of the distribution of amber objects within Europe and point to shifting mechanisms that influenced this process.
Network analyses based on similarities facilitate more detailed descriptions of the exchange relationships between the regions. The distribution of raw amber, specific networks of special types and the parallel distribution of other objects and cultural phenomena are also included. These analyses make it possible to represent the relationships between the regions in models and to trace their development over time.
The results show that the topic of amber exchange – even after a century of intensive research – is not yet fully exhausted. By using current data and implementing new methods, a more accurate picture of the past can be drawn, which offers insights into the complex relationships and exchange networks of Bronze Age Europe. This study emphasises the importance of further research and the necessity to employ current knowledge and techniques in order to further deepen our understanding of prehistory.