Vera Klontza-Jaklova | Masaryk University (original) (raw)

Books by Vera Klontza-Jaklova

Research paper thumbnail of What's wrong? : hard science and humanities tackling the question of the absolute chronology of the Santorini eruption

Research paper thumbnail of Vera Klontza full bibliography

Research paper thumbnail of Contacts, Migrations and Climate Change Conference in honour of Jan Bouzek, Prague, May 19th-23rd, 2015: Abstracts brochure

Book of abstracts for the Contacts, Migrations and Climate Change Conference in honor of Jan Bouz... more Book of abstracts for the Contacts, Migrations and Climate Change Conference in honor of Jan Bouzek, Prague, May 19th-23rd, 2015. Edited by R. Frecer.

Research paper thumbnail of Studie k historickým interpretacím pozdní doby bronzové v Egejdě  Late Bronze Age in Aegean: Study in Historical Interpretations

This dissertation deals with the main problems of historical interpretation of Late Bronze Age Ae... more This dissertation deals with the main problems of historical interpretation of Late Bronze Age Aegean prehistory. Each chapter presents what is usually discussed as a special issue in contemporary bibliography. The environment of the region, its development and changes and the main approaches to enviromental studies are characterized in the introductory chapters. The chapter dedicated to the history of research, is of particular importance; “The truth of how archaeologists make discoveries, however, is far from the popular notion of random encounters and chance finds. We must take the time to examine the personalities and events leading up to these discoveries.” (MacGillivray 2000, 11).
The first issue to be dicussed is that of the absolute chronology of the early phases of the East Mediterranean, in particular the Aegean, Late Bronze Age. The resolution of this problem is crucial if synchronicity of events in individual regions, not only in the Mediterranean basin but also across Europe, is to be established. The lack of clarity in the reconstruction of chronological levels throughout large regions, makes it almost impossible to solve some causal questions of late prehistory and early history. This problem is especially obvious in the case of the relationship between the Egyptian Second Intermediate period and the first dynasties of the New Kingdom and the Aegean region. This topic has been intensively discussed since the period when the first radiocarbon dates were published (early 1970‘s). These dates contradicted the traditional archaeological chronological systems in the Eastern Mediterranean, as well as many other regions. This has led to an intense and wide ranging debate about chronology for at least the last 20 years within both the scientific and archaeological communities. Cooperation between the two different approaches is still in its very early stages when it comes to common results. (Chapter 2.1)
The next, much discussed, issue is the reconstruction of the political system in Neopalatial Crete; the crystallisation and formation of the first states in Crete. This very complex topic is approached and presented in the form of an essay. (Chapter 2.2)
In the following chapter (2. 3) the problem of the destruction of the LM IB centres is analyzed. Although their dating seems no longer to be contentious, their interpretation remains so. Evans‘ interpretation of their being simply the effect of earthquakes now appears implausible and attention is focused on explanations related to political events. Contemporary Aegean prehistorians are asking why and by whom these destructions were brought about.
The next two chapters deal with the Final and Postpalatial period and with the period of the Mycenaean centre’s zenith. Both regions – Crete and the mainland - are compared. The differences and similarities between the regions are established and their causes, patterns and conclusions are evaluated. The main problem seems to be the form of the relationship between the two regions. What did it mean to be Mycenaean or Cretan? Were the Mycenaeans active in Crete and, if so, how intensive was their presence there, which forms did it take, who among the Mycenaeans reached Crete and why? How can any impact of foreign elements in Crete or on mainland be traced? . Contemporary archaeology offers new approaches to the explanation of the development of these regions during this extremely complex period of Aegean prehistory and our explanations and modes of understanding directly affect interpretations of subsequent events. (Chapters 2.4 a 2.5)
Chapter 2.6 then deals with the issue of the collapse of the palatial system. This has not been approached as the end of “something good and ideal“ - an attitude inherited from Homer by the original pioneers of archaeology - but as a collapse which can be is understood as a way out of crisis. The regions of the Cycladic islands, Crete and the Mycenaean mainland are studied separately and specifics of their development are put into a wider context.
A short chapter (2.7) is used to outline subsequent developments and to describe the Agean in the period from the 12th to 10th C BC.
A special chapter is dedicated to the reconstruction of the ways of thinking of Late Bronze Age populations. (2.8)
An integral part of the work is the penultimate chapter devoted to the broad European context (3.1).
The final chapter (3. 2) summarizes the main issues discussed.
The work was conceived as a study. Many of its parts were built as essays. Although the main aim was to review the contemporary stage of research, philosophical approach and methodology, it doesn’t stop there: the definition of new questions, the accent on unanswered questions and the exposition of new methodological approaches represent further goals of this work. The methodological approaches, their possibilities and limitations are assessed. The aim is not to judge what or who is right but how to view the region and the period in a wide historical context.
A parallel intent was to create a text book addressed to Central European prehistorians and students of classical archaeology in order to present and to explain what topics are currently being actively debated.
The author understands this dissertation as part of the so called "Czech“ school of Aegean prehistory epitomized by the work of Prof. Bouzek, whose approach to Aegean prehistory as part of a large complex of space and time has influenced an entire generation of archaeologists around the world and today seems a highly effective method of pursuing historical studies in prehistory. The author trys to “mobilize“ other disciplines, such as philosophy, ethnology, political studies, art history, environmental studies and natural sciences in order to get closer to the world of the past.
This dissertation, although a large volume of more than 500 pages, represents only the initial phase of the author‘s research in the field of Late Bronze Age studies.

Research paper thumbnail of Με τα μάτια των παιδιών

Papers by Vera Klontza-Jaklova

Research paper thumbnail of Horses in the suburbs of a medieval city – a case study from Brno (Czech Republic)

Anthropozoologica, 2024

The article presents a set of horse skeletons (11 individuals) found at three excavation sites so... more The article presents a set of horse skeletons (11 individuals) found at three excavation sites south of the city of Brno (Czech Republic), dated to the Late Medieval and Early Modern periods. The skeletons were deliberately deposited within agricultural estates and the assemblage consisted of complete or near-complete skeletons. The osteological assemblage was therefore suitable for further analysis. Firstly, the withers height and robusticity of individual equines were determined. The majority of them were slightly taller and more slender-legged than those of earlier periods and smaller than contemporary riding and draft horses. With one exception, they were determined to be males and majority died at around 7-14 years of age. Pathological findings observed on the skull and second premolars can be most likely related to the working history of those individuals. Changes to the spinal column are in most cases rather mild or absent suggesting that the horses studied were probably not used for extensive heavy work. The relatively high incidence of other pathological changes indicates poor health care, with two individuals showing signs of a possible bacterial infection. The origin and mobility of the individuals were reconstructed by strontium analyses. With one exception, all individuals were most likely born and died in the same region.

Research paper thumbnail of The Cretan Horse: Still a Unique Breed? Part II: Equines on Crete from the End of the Nineteenth Century to the Present Day

Cheiron: The International Journal of Equine and Equestrian History, 2024

In the first part of the study, the authors reviewed and evaluated archaeofaunal, archaeological,... more In the first part of the study, the authors reviewed and evaluated archaeofaunal, archaeological, iconographical, and historiographical information from the Neolithic Period up to the end of the
nineteenth century. The domesticated horse (Equus Caballus) was imported to the island at the end of the 3rd millennium B.C.E. and ca 1500 B.C.E. was an integral part of palatial elite identity, while the donkey (Equus Asinus) was already present in the Final Neolithic. In 1895 the Ottoman rulers defined the Cretan horse as a specific breed, and its cross-breeding and export were forbidden. The numbers of horses were significant but poorly documented during almost the entire twentieth century. Today, the Cretan horse is understood as part of local tradition, a historical patrimony, and an integral part of Crete’s cultural heritage. The island’s geographical, climatic, historical, and cultural characteristics were imprinted in its characteristics. In the context of long-term economic crisis and a lack of horse breeding experts, the Cretan horse faces extinction, despite the number of horses on the island. Therefore, the authors established the Cretan horse centre’s conservation, rescue, and education programme.

Research paper thumbnail of Synecdemus Novus: Presenting the Dataset of Human Activities on Crete (201–1204 C.E.)

Journal of Open Archaeological Data, 2024

Synecdemus Novus is a dataset of published archaeological sites, buildings, and associated marker... more Synecdemus Novus is a dataset of published archaeological sites, buildings, and associated markers located in Crete and dating between the Late Roman Period (3rd century C.E.) and the Venetian domination of the island (1204 C.E.). The dataset, consisting of 1234 entries, lists the location, spatial coordinates, type of the site/building/marker, chronological range, and relevant scholarly references for each entry. Synecdemus Novus is a resource for heritage management and allows researchers to investigate the spatio-temporal dynamics of settlement patterning in Crete between aforementioned periods.

Research paper thumbnail of Historical dataset of osteological and archaeological records for equines on Crete

Data in Brief , 2024

We gathered evidence on the occurrence of equines in the island of Crete from the Neolithic until... more We gathered evidence on the occurrence of equines in the island of Crete from the Neolithic until 1895. We relied on published archaeological and osteological records plus on historical written documents. Our dataset includes a description of the type of evidence, where this was located, and the associated absolute and relative chronologies. The collected data can be used to investigate the past spread of equids in Crete (Equus asinus and Equus caballus), their socioeconomic status, and the development of the local Cretan breed. The dataset is made available via the Abraxas data community within the Pandora data platform. This community is devoted to the historical study of horses. The dataset presented here is a component of a project tracing the history of the Cretan horse until present day.

Research paper thumbnail of The Cretan Horse: Still a Unique Breed? Part I: Equines on Crete from the Neolithic to the Ottoman Period

CHEIRON: THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EQUINE AND EQUESTRIAN HISTORY, 2023

The Cretan (or Messara, Giorgalidiko) horse or pony was first mentioned as a distinct specific ho... more The Cretan (or Messara, Giorgalidiko) horse or pony was first mentioned as a distinct specific horse breed by the Ottomans in 1895. This horse, however, may have a much longer history, perhaps going back to the prehistoric era. It also has an unsure future. Based on a review of available archaeofaunal, iconographical, and historiographical information, the authors identify the characteristics of the Cretan horse, discuss the possible origin of this breed, describe its current breeding status, and present a proposal for its preservation. Domesticated horses (Equus caballus) appeared on the island by the end of the third millennium B.C.E. and became part of the cultural context after the mid-second millennium B.C.E. It is difficult to trace the horse in Crete during Classical antiquity, early Christianity, and the early Middle Ages. It is possible that various breeds of E. caballus were present on the island during the Late Middle Ages. The Cretan horse is understood as part of local tradition, a historical patrimony, and an integral part of Crete‘s cultural heritage. The geographical, climatic, historical, and cultural characteristics of the island were imprinted in its characteristics. The Cretan horse is poorly documented up to this day. It now faces extinction. The authors gathered information and evidence of horses on Crete from the Neolithic period up to the present day. They produced two papers, representing a comprehensive overview of the Equus Cabalus history of the island. The first paper covers the period from prehistoric times up to 1895, when the Cretan horse was declared a special breed by the Ottoman administration and protected legally. The research summarizes archaeological, osteological, iconographical, and historical evidence. The second paper describes the state of the breed during the twentieth century, the current position, its further needs and future prospects.

Research paper thumbnail of The Late Migration Period Cemetery at Drnholec (Břeclav District, Czech Republic) / Pohřebiště z konce doby stěhování národů z Drnholce (okres Břeclav, ČR)

Památky archeologické

The authors present part of a burial ground of the Late Migration Period in Drnholec - Pod sýpkou... more The authors present part of a burial ground of the Late Migration Period in Drnholec - Pod sýpkou (Břeclav district, Czech Republic), where seven graves were discovered in 2016 and 2017. The grave goods were identified, by typological analysis, as Langobardian/Lombardian. The authors argue that even a small part of a cemetery with a limited number of graves can bring important new data and open strategic questions, challenging traditional interpretations. The paper aims to present the results of excavation in the light of archaeological, anthropological and zooarchaeological perspectives. Archaeological part is focused on presenting the grave units and the cemetery as a contextual unit. Stylistic and typological analysis of grave goods, radiocarbon dates and probability modeling were used to establish the chronology of the cemetery. Anthropological and palaeopathological examinations were accompanied with buccal dental microwear analysis and tooth cementum annulation (TCA) which pro...

Research paper thumbnail of Mapping the Probability of settlement location for the Malia-Lasithi Region (Crete, Greece) During the Minoan Protopalatial period

Landscape Archaeology between Art and Science

Testing of mathematic predictive modeling for accurate location of archaeological sites. The mode... more Testing of mathematic predictive modeling for accurate location of archaeological sites. The model was applied on Protopalatial settlements of Malia-Lasithi region.

Research paper thumbnail of Etruskové a koně

Jezdectví, Apr 30, 2020

General Bulord's cavalry charging Confederate positions neat Beverly Ford on the Rappahonnoik Riv... more General Bulord's cavalry charging Confederate positions neat Beverly Ford on the Rappahonnoik Rivci. Ftank Dickerson, serving with theAimvol the Potomac, spent much of the wai in (ampaigns in Northern Virginia. Harper's Weekly. 18X3. equal to great exertion, he unwillingly accepted more retired, but responsible, posts of duty, first in Maryland, and afterward at Nashville, Tenn. At length wasted by sickness, he was met on his way home by his father in New York, and died of con sumption on board a steamer, in Boston Harbor, February 17, 1866, while en route for Belfast. Frank is buried in the Grove Street Cemetery, Belfast, Maine. A list of 10 of the 12 battles in which he participated is recorded on his marker. Lucy (Dickerson Burleigh) Richardson [On Janu ary 1. 18(53. L in coln issued the Em ancipation Proclam ation. A week later Lieutenant Frank \V. Dickerson wrote home:]

Research paper thumbnail of Lothar Sperber, Studien zur spätbronzezeitlichen Chronologie im westlichen Mitteleuropa und in Westeuropa

Research paper thumbnail of Cesty horním Kurveleshem v čase a prostoru

Munispace – čítárna Masarykovy univerzity, 2020

Research paper thumbnail of První páni jezdci přicválali z Asie a jejich krev koluje i v nás

Research paper thumbnail of Voltiž a džigitovky antického světa

Equi Press s.r.o., 2021

Článek seznamuje s disciplínou starověké voltiže: anabates

Research paper thumbnail of 5.4. Mapping the probability of settlement location for the Malia-Lasithi region (Crete, Greece) during the Minoan Protopalatial period

Landscape Archaeology between Art and Science, 2012

The current study considers a mixed environmental/historical statistical model to establish a pro... more The current study considers a mixed environmental/historical statistical model to establish a probability map for settlement locations in Crete's Malia-Lasithi region during the Minoan Protopalatial period. The work represents the continuation of previous research that focused on site location choices during the Protopalatial and whereby a comparison was made between the performances of a purely environmental over a mixed environmental/historical model. Statistical modelling consisted of fitting a logistic regression model using a Deletion/Substitution/Addition (DSA) algorithm for model selection. Model uncertainty was assessed through calculation of confidence intervals at the 95% confidence level and the results are presented as probability maps that show upper and lower interval endpoints for the study area. Assessment of the model's predictive performance, on both the study area and on an independent validation area, indicates that the model is able to capture some underlying structure that determines preferences for site locations. Moreover there is a general agreement between the generated settlement probability map and many of the existing published survey results. The results obtained demonstrate the usefulness of the modeling approach and we expect that the existing model can be further improved in the future by incorporating more survey data. The authors would like to thank the Institute for Mediterranean Studies-FORTH for having kindly provided most of the raw data used in this study. We would also like to thank the editors and reviewers of the LAC2010 proceedings for their kind comments which have greatly benefitted the current paper. references

Research paper thumbnail of Lothar Sperber, Studien zur spätbronzezeitlichen Chronologie im westlichen Mitteleuropa und in Westeuropa

Rezension zu: Lothar Sperber, Studien zur spätbronzezeitlichen Chronologie im westlichen Mitteleu... more Rezension zu: Lothar Sperber, Studien zur spätbronzezeitlichen Chronologie im westlichen Mitteleuropa und in Westeuropa. Monographien des Römisch-Germanischen Zentralmuseums, volume 136. Publisher Schnell und Steiner, Regensburg 2017. 334 pages with 120 black and white illustrations.

Research paper thumbnail of Aegean parallels to Carpathian Bronze Age pendants

Research paper thumbnail of What's wrong? : hard science and humanities tackling the question of the absolute chronology of the Santorini eruption

Research paper thumbnail of Vera Klontza full bibliography

Research paper thumbnail of Contacts, Migrations and Climate Change Conference in honour of Jan Bouzek, Prague, May 19th-23rd, 2015: Abstracts brochure

Book of abstracts for the Contacts, Migrations and Climate Change Conference in honor of Jan Bouz... more Book of abstracts for the Contacts, Migrations and Climate Change Conference in honor of Jan Bouzek, Prague, May 19th-23rd, 2015. Edited by R. Frecer.

Research paper thumbnail of Studie k historickým interpretacím pozdní doby bronzové v Egejdě  Late Bronze Age in Aegean: Study in Historical Interpretations

This dissertation deals with the main problems of historical interpretation of Late Bronze Age Ae... more This dissertation deals with the main problems of historical interpretation of Late Bronze Age Aegean prehistory. Each chapter presents what is usually discussed as a special issue in contemporary bibliography. The environment of the region, its development and changes and the main approaches to enviromental studies are characterized in the introductory chapters. The chapter dedicated to the history of research, is of particular importance; “The truth of how archaeologists make discoveries, however, is far from the popular notion of random encounters and chance finds. We must take the time to examine the personalities and events leading up to these discoveries.” (MacGillivray 2000, 11).
The first issue to be dicussed is that of the absolute chronology of the early phases of the East Mediterranean, in particular the Aegean, Late Bronze Age. The resolution of this problem is crucial if synchronicity of events in individual regions, not only in the Mediterranean basin but also across Europe, is to be established. The lack of clarity in the reconstruction of chronological levels throughout large regions, makes it almost impossible to solve some causal questions of late prehistory and early history. This problem is especially obvious in the case of the relationship between the Egyptian Second Intermediate period and the first dynasties of the New Kingdom and the Aegean region. This topic has been intensively discussed since the period when the first radiocarbon dates were published (early 1970‘s). These dates contradicted the traditional archaeological chronological systems in the Eastern Mediterranean, as well as many other regions. This has led to an intense and wide ranging debate about chronology for at least the last 20 years within both the scientific and archaeological communities. Cooperation between the two different approaches is still in its very early stages when it comes to common results. (Chapter 2.1)
The next, much discussed, issue is the reconstruction of the political system in Neopalatial Crete; the crystallisation and formation of the first states in Crete. This very complex topic is approached and presented in the form of an essay. (Chapter 2.2)
In the following chapter (2. 3) the problem of the destruction of the LM IB centres is analyzed. Although their dating seems no longer to be contentious, their interpretation remains so. Evans‘ interpretation of their being simply the effect of earthquakes now appears implausible and attention is focused on explanations related to political events. Contemporary Aegean prehistorians are asking why and by whom these destructions were brought about.
The next two chapters deal with the Final and Postpalatial period and with the period of the Mycenaean centre’s zenith. Both regions – Crete and the mainland - are compared. The differences and similarities between the regions are established and their causes, patterns and conclusions are evaluated. The main problem seems to be the form of the relationship between the two regions. What did it mean to be Mycenaean or Cretan? Were the Mycenaeans active in Crete and, if so, how intensive was their presence there, which forms did it take, who among the Mycenaeans reached Crete and why? How can any impact of foreign elements in Crete or on mainland be traced? . Contemporary archaeology offers new approaches to the explanation of the development of these regions during this extremely complex period of Aegean prehistory and our explanations and modes of understanding directly affect interpretations of subsequent events. (Chapters 2.4 a 2.5)
Chapter 2.6 then deals with the issue of the collapse of the palatial system. This has not been approached as the end of “something good and ideal“ - an attitude inherited from Homer by the original pioneers of archaeology - but as a collapse which can be is understood as a way out of crisis. The regions of the Cycladic islands, Crete and the Mycenaean mainland are studied separately and specifics of their development are put into a wider context.
A short chapter (2.7) is used to outline subsequent developments and to describe the Agean in the period from the 12th to 10th C BC.
A special chapter is dedicated to the reconstruction of the ways of thinking of Late Bronze Age populations. (2.8)
An integral part of the work is the penultimate chapter devoted to the broad European context (3.1).
The final chapter (3. 2) summarizes the main issues discussed.
The work was conceived as a study. Many of its parts were built as essays. Although the main aim was to review the contemporary stage of research, philosophical approach and methodology, it doesn’t stop there: the definition of new questions, the accent on unanswered questions and the exposition of new methodological approaches represent further goals of this work. The methodological approaches, their possibilities and limitations are assessed. The aim is not to judge what or who is right but how to view the region and the period in a wide historical context.
A parallel intent was to create a text book addressed to Central European prehistorians and students of classical archaeology in order to present and to explain what topics are currently being actively debated.
The author understands this dissertation as part of the so called "Czech“ school of Aegean prehistory epitomized by the work of Prof. Bouzek, whose approach to Aegean prehistory as part of a large complex of space and time has influenced an entire generation of archaeologists around the world and today seems a highly effective method of pursuing historical studies in prehistory. The author trys to “mobilize“ other disciplines, such as philosophy, ethnology, political studies, art history, environmental studies and natural sciences in order to get closer to the world of the past.
This dissertation, although a large volume of more than 500 pages, represents only the initial phase of the author‘s research in the field of Late Bronze Age studies.

Research paper thumbnail of Με τα μάτια των παιδιών

Research paper thumbnail of Horses in the suburbs of a medieval city – a case study from Brno (Czech Republic)

Anthropozoologica, 2024

The article presents a set of horse skeletons (11 individuals) found at three excavation sites so... more The article presents a set of horse skeletons (11 individuals) found at three excavation sites south of the city of Brno (Czech Republic), dated to the Late Medieval and Early Modern periods. The skeletons were deliberately deposited within agricultural estates and the assemblage consisted of complete or near-complete skeletons. The osteological assemblage was therefore suitable for further analysis. Firstly, the withers height and robusticity of individual equines were determined. The majority of them were slightly taller and more slender-legged than those of earlier periods and smaller than contemporary riding and draft horses. With one exception, they were determined to be males and majority died at around 7-14 years of age. Pathological findings observed on the skull and second premolars can be most likely related to the working history of those individuals. Changes to the spinal column are in most cases rather mild or absent suggesting that the horses studied were probably not used for extensive heavy work. The relatively high incidence of other pathological changes indicates poor health care, with two individuals showing signs of a possible bacterial infection. The origin and mobility of the individuals were reconstructed by strontium analyses. With one exception, all individuals were most likely born and died in the same region.

Research paper thumbnail of The Cretan Horse: Still a Unique Breed? Part II: Equines on Crete from the End of the Nineteenth Century to the Present Day

Cheiron: The International Journal of Equine and Equestrian History, 2024

In the first part of the study, the authors reviewed and evaluated archaeofaunal, archaeological,... more In the first part of the study, the authors reviewed and evaluated archaeofaunal, archaeological, iconographical, and historiographical information from the Neolithic Period up to the end of the
nineteenth century. The domesticated horse (Equus Caballus) was imported to the island at the end of the 3rd millennium B.C.E. and ca 1500 B.C.E. was an integral part of palatial elite identity, while the donkey (Equus Asinus) was already present in the Final Neolithic. In 1895 the Ottoman rulers defined the Cretan horse as a specific breed, and its cross-breeding and export were forbidden. The numbers of horses were significant but poorly documented during almost the entire twentieth century. Today, the Cretan horse is understood as part of local tradition, a historical patrimony, and an integral part of Crete’s cultural heritage. The island’s geographical, climatic, historical, and cultural characteristics were imprinted in its characteristics. In the context of long-term economic crisis and a lack of horse breeding experts, the Cretan horse faces extinction, despite the number of horses on the island. Therefore, the authors established the Cretan horse centre’s conservation, rescue, and education programme.

Research paper thumbnail of Synecdemus Novus: Presenting the Dataset of Human Activities on Crete (201–1204 C.E.)

Journal of Open Archaeological Data, 2024

Synecdemus Novus is a dataset of published archaeological sites, buildings, and associated marker... more Synecdemus Novus is a dataset of published archaeological sites, buildings, and associated markers located in Crete and dating between the Late Roman Period (3rd century C.E.) and the Venetian domination of the island (1204 C.E.). The dataset, consisting of 1234 entries, lists the location, spatial coordinates, type of the site/building/marker, chronological range, and relevant scholarly references for each entry. Synecdemus Novus is a resource for heritage management and allows researchers to investigate the spatio-temporal dynamics of settlement patterning in Crete between aforementioned periods.

Research paper thumbnail of Historical dataset of osteological and archaeological records for equines on Crete

Data in Brief , 2024

We gathered evidence on the occurrence of equines in the island of Crete from the Neolithic until... more We gathered evidence on the occurrence of equines in the island of Crete from the Neolithic until 1895. We relied on published archaeological and osteological records plus on historical written documents. Our dataset includes a description of the type of evidence, where this was located, and the associated absolute and relative chronologies. The collected data can be used to investigate the past spread of equids in Crete (Equus asinus and Equus caballus), their socioeconomic status, and the development of the local Cretan breed. The dataset is made available via the Abraxas data community within the Pandora data platform. This community is devoted to the historical study of horses. The dataset presented here is a component of a project tracing the history of the Cretan horse until present day.

Research paper thumbnail of The Cretan Horse: Still a Unique Breed? Part I: Equines on Crete from the Neolithic to the Ottoman Period

CHEIRON: THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EQUINE AND EQUESTRIAN HISTORY, 2023

The Cretan (or Messara, Giorgalidiko) horse or pony was first mentioned as a distinct specific ho... more The Cretan (or Messara, Giorgalidiko) horse or pony was first mentioned as a distinct specific horse breed by the Ottomans in 1895. This horse, however, may have a much longer history, perhaps going back to the prehistoric era. It also has an unsure future. Based on a review of available archaeofaunal, iconographical, and historiographical information, the authors identify the characteristics of the Cretan horse, discuss the possible origin of this breed, describe its current breeding status, and present a proposal for its preservation. Domesticated horses (Equus caballus) appeared on the island by the end of the third millennium B.C.E. and became part of the cultural context after the mid-second millennium B.C.E. It is difficult to trace the horse in Crete during Classical antiquity, early Christianity, and the early Middle Ages. It is possible that various breeds of E. caballus were present on the island during the Late Middle Ages. The Cretan horse is understood as part of local tradition, a historical patrimony, and an integral part of Crete‘s cultural heritage. The geographical, climatic, historical, and cultural characteristics of the island were imprinted in its characteristics. The Cretan horse is poorly documented up to this day. It now faces extinction. The authors gathered information and evidence of horses on Crete from the Neolithic period up to the present day. They produced two papers, representing a comprehensive overview of the Equus Cabalus history of the island. The first paper covers the period from prehistoric times up to 1895, when the Cretan horse was declared a special breed by the Ottoman administration and protected legally. The research summarizes archaeological, osteological, iconographical, and historical evidence. The second paper describes the state of the breed during the twentieth century, the current position, its further needs and future prospects.

Research paper thumbnail of The Late Migration Period Cemetery at Drnholec (Břeclav District, Czech Republic) / Pohřebiště z konce doby stěhování národů z Drnholce (okres Břeclav, ČR)

Památky archeologické

The authors present part of a burial ground of the Late Migration Period in Drnholec - Pod sýpkou... more The authors present part of a burial ground of the Late Migration Period in Drnholec - Pod sýpkou (Břeclav district, Czech Republic), where seven graves were discovered in 2016 and 2017. The grave goods were identified, by typological analysis, as Langobardian/Lombardian. The authors argue that even a small part of a cemetery with a limited number of graves can bring important new data and open strategic questions, challenging traditional interpretations. The paper aims to present the results of excavation in the light of archaeological, anthropological and zooarchaeological perspectives. Archaeological part is focused on presenting the grave units and the cemetery as a contextual unit. Stylistic and typological analysis of grave goods, radiocarbon dates and probability modeling were used to establish the chronology of the cemetery. Anthropological and palaeopathological examinations were accompanied with buccal dental microwear analysis and tooth cementum annulation (TCA) which pro...

Research paper thumbnail of Mapping the Probability of settlement location for the Malia-Lasithi Region (Crete, Greece) During the Minoan Protopalatial period

Landscape Archaeology between Art and Science

Testing of mathematic predictive modeling for accurate location of archaeological sites. The mode... more Testing of mathematic predictive modeling for accurate location of archaeological sites. The model was applied on Protopalatial settlements of Malia-Lasithi region.

Research paper thumbnail of Etruskové a koně

Jezdectví, Apr 30, 2020

General Bulord's cavalry charging Confederate positions neat Beverly Ford on the Rappahonnoik Riv... more General Bulord's cavalry charging Confederate positions neat Beverly Ford on the Rappahonnoik Rivci. Ftank Dickerson, serving with theAimvol the Potomac, spent much of the wai in (ampaigns in Northern Virginia. Harper's Weekly. 18X3. equal to great exertion, he unwillingly accepted more retired, but responsible, posts of duty, first in Maryland, and afterward at Nashville, Tenn. At length wasted by sickness, he was met on his way home by his father in New York, and died of con sumption on board a steamer, in Boston Harbor, February 17, 1866, while en route for Belfast. Frank is buried in the Grove Street Cemetery, Belfast, Maine. A list of 10 of the 12 battles in which he participated is recorded on his marker. Lucy (Dickerson Burleigh) Richardson [On Janu ary 1. 18(53. L in coln issued the Em ancipation Proclam ation. A week later Lieutenant Frank \V. Dickerson wrote home:]

Research paper thumbnail of Lothar Sperber, Studien zur spätbronzezeitlichen Chronologie im westlichen Mitteleuropa und in Westeuropa

Research paper thumbnail of Cesty horním Kurveleshem v čase a prostoru

Munispace – čítárna Masarykovy univerzity, 2020

Research paper thumbnail of První páni jezdci přicválali z Asie a jejich krev koluje i v nás

Research paper thumbnail of Voltiž a džigitovky antického světa

Equi Press s.r.o., 2021

Článek seznamuje s disciplínou starověké voltiže: anabates

Research paper thumbnail of 5.4. Mapping the probability of settlement location for the Malia-Lasithi region (Crete, Greece) during the Minoan Protopalatial period

Landscape Archaeology between Art and Science, 2012

The current study considers a mixed environmental/historical statistical model to establish a pro... more The current study considers a mixed environmental/historical statistical model to establish a probability map for settlement locations in Crete's Malia-Lasithi region during the Minoan Protopalatial period. The work represents the continuation of previous research that focused on site location choices during the Protopalatial and whereby a comparison was made between the performances of a purely environmental over a mixed environmental/historical model. Statistical modelling consisted of fitting a logistic regression model using a Deletion/Substitution/Addition (DSA) algorithm for model selection. Model uncertainty was assessed through calculation of confidence intervals at the 95% confidence level and the results are presented as probability maps that show upper and lower interval endpoints for the study area. Assessment of the model's predictive performance, on both the study area and on an independent validation area, indicates that the model is able to capture some underlying structure that determines preferences for site locations. Moreover there is a general agreement between the generated settlement probability map and many of the existing published survey results. The results obtained demonstrate the usefulness of the modeling approach and we expect that the existing model can be further improved in the future by incorporating more survey data. The authors would like to thank the Institute for Mediterranean Studies-FORTH for having kindly provided most of the raw data used in this study. We would also like to thank the editors and reviewers of the LAC2010 proceedings for their kind comments which have greatly benefitted the current paper. references

Research paper thumbnail of Lothar Sperber, Studien zur spätbronzezeitlichen Chronologie im westlichen Mitteleuropa und in Westeuropa

Rezension zu: Lothar Sperber, Studien zur spätbronzezeitlichen Chronologie im westlichen Mitteleu... more Rezension zu: Lothar Sperber, Studien zur spätbronzezeitlichen Chronologie im westlichen Mitteleuropa und in Westeuropa. Monographien des Römisch-Germanischen Zentralmuseums, volume 136. Publisher Schnell und Steiner, Regensburg 2017. 334 pages with 120 black and white illustrations.

Research paper thumbnail of Aegean parallels to Carpathian Bronze Age pendants

Research paper thumbnail of Specifics of Aegean Byzantine Amphorae Studies: the example of Priniatikos Pyrgos, East Crete

This article deals with the specific aspects of Early Byzantine amphorae which arise from their f... more This article deals with the specific aspects of Early Byzantine amphorae which arise from their function as a shipping container. This type of pottery has a very long tradition in the eastern Mediterranean; at least since the Middle Bronze Age. The shape of the vessel and the technology used were virtually constant from the Late Classical period until the Middle Byzantine period. The design of the vessel was determined by its original transportation function and this simultaneously defined the user’s approach to it. Fragments of amphorae constitute a significant part of many archaeological contexts. The distribution of amphorae in the Mediterranean and beyond makes them an important historical source suitable for the study of trade relations in the then known world.

Research paper thumbnail of The LM Ib “Hoarding Horizon” on Crete (An Essay)

This paper’s aim is to contribute to the discussion of the meanings of the terms as hoard, treasu... more This paper’s aim is to contribute to the discussion of the meanings of the terms as hoard, treasure, wealth deposition etc. used to describe deliberately concealed artefact deposits. This article discusses the question whether the deposition of metal and valuable objects of LM IB strata can be compared with the hoard/wealth depositions of continental Europe, whether they can support similar interpretations and can be included within the existing categories of European hoards or must be assigned to a separate and exceptional category.

Research paper thumbnail of Bez koně nebude slunce

Slovenská archeológia, 2020

no Horse, no sun. The Role of Horse in the Bronze Age Tranformation Processes. horses played a vi... more no Horse, no sun. The Role of Horse in the Bronze Age Tranformation Processes. horses played a vital role in human history. they were introduced rather late to central europe and were absorbed into the existing 'power package'. they were one of the transmitters of technologies, ideas, goods, and people. As soon as they appeared, they became part of the economy, a power and prestige symbol, an essential element of mythology. they can be traced in osteological material, iconography and riding equipment (bits, cheekpieces etc.). this paper aims to explain the role of the horsemanship in the rise of Bronze age civilizations, in the formation of new economic, social and power structures across almost the entire continent (although in different intensity). Why did the horse breeders, riders, charioteers, and warriors become members of new elites so rapidly? i argue that the role of horses is still underestimated in the traditional model of the Bronze age societies.

Research paper thumbnail of Blown Glass in Wall Paintings from Kritsa, Crete: A PreliminaryReport

In the Panagia Kera Church (Crete, Greece) were identified glass objects depicted on the interier... more In the Panagia Kera Church (Crete, Greece) were identified glass objects depicted on the interier frescoes. The have been compared with archaeological material known from the region and placed in the historical frame.

Research paper thumbnail of Zur Frage der Wirkung der Situlenkunst in der Kunstform derFürstenschicht des 7.-5. Jahrhunderts v. Chr. in Mitteleuropa

Der Vortrag sprichts uber die Frage der Wirkung der Situlenkunst in der Kunstform der Furstenschi... more Der Vortrag sprichts uber die Frage der Wirkung der Situlenkunst in der Kunstform der Furstenschicht des 7. – 5. Jahrhunderts v. Chr. in Mitteleuropa.

Research paper thumbnail of Diet in Priniatikos Pyrgos (Crete) - POSTER

Since our research is still at a relatively early stage, we intend, with the exception of some pr... more Since our research is still at a relatively early stage, we intend, with the exception of some preliminary data, to present a schedule of the methodology we propose to apply (to some general and some more specific questions) and indicate our expectations concerning the results from each investigation.

Research paper thumbnail of Review: William T. Taylor. 2024. Hoof beats: how horses shaped human history. Oakland: University of California Press

Antiquity, 2025

‘Horse and human’ represent a fascinating interspecies relationship between predator and its prey... more ‘Horse and human’ represent a fascinating interspecies relationship between predator and its prey. This unique relationship shaped our history, with the horse being one of the most significant suppliers of natural energy (along with solar energy and human labour) and the fastest means of transport on land until the discovery of electricity and the steam engine, and the author William Taylor is well aware of this. He provides us with data documenting this journey from the beginning of the evolution of the Equus species to the nineteenth century, while successfully leaving the horses “themselves to tell the human-story” (p.xv), and argues that this is only possible through archaeology.

Research paper thumbnail of BOOK REVIEW: Hippos. The Horse in Ancient Athens. Ίππος. Το άλλογο στην αρχαία Αϑήνα

BONNER JAHRBÜCHER, 2022

Review on Hippos. The Horse in Ancient Athens. Ίππος. Το άλλογο στην αρχαία Αϑήνα. Herausgegeben ... more Review on Hippos. The Horse in Ancient Athens. Ίππος. Το
άλλογο στην αρχαία Αϑήνα. Herausgegeben von Jenifer Neils und Shannon M. Dunn. American School of Classical Studies Athens. Selbstverlag der American School, Athen 2023. 287 Seiten mit zahlreichen Abbildungen

Research paper thumbnail of Lothar Sperber, Studien zur spätbronzezeitlichen Chronologie im westlichen Mitteleuropa und in Westeuropa. Monographien des Römisch-Germanischen Zentralmuseums, volume 136.

Bonner Jahrbbuch , 2018

The review of the Lothar Sperber's monograph tries to evaluate the utility of the extended typolo... more The review of the Lothar Sperber's monograph tries to evaluate the utility of the extended typological chains of bronze artifacts, their importance, and validity for absolute chronology of the particular period and region.

Research paper thumbnail of Recenze: Jozef Bujna – Václav Furmánek – Egon Wiedermann (Zost.): Staré Slovensko 1. Archeológia ako historická veda

M. vágner, h. vavrčík, r. vrla, g. vyskočilová, P. Žákovský): Veselí nad Moravou. Středověký hrad... more M. vágner, h. vavrčík, r. vrla, g. vyskočilová, P. Žákovský): Veselí nad Moravou. Středověký hrad v říční nivě. archaia Brno o. p. s. Brno 2015. 382 strán, 219 čiernobielych obrázkov, 24 tabiel, 24 diagramov, 49 farebných obrázkov, anglický súhrn, dátový nosič DvD. iSBn 978-80-905546-3-4.

Research paper thumbnail of The criteria of chronological and historical synchronisation of the Central European and Aegean Bronze Age

Our poster presents the overview of the contemporary chronological systems synchronizing archaeol... more Our poster presents the overview of the contemporary chronological systems synchronizing archaeological phases of Central-European Early and Middle Bronze Age with their counterparts in the Aegean region trying to harmonize traditional archaeological evidence with some hindsight to radiocarbon dates.
We discuss possible methodologies how to question or verify the validity of each of the chronological system, their synchronisation, and if some events in any of those regions could initiate changes in the other.
We challenge these problems through interregional comparison of the settlement structure changes (spatio-temporal modelling), absolute chronology (summed probability distribution), and changes in economy, long distance trade, spiritual life and climate changes.
Similarities and differenced in the cultural-historical development of the Central Europe and Eastern Mediterranean are pointed out.