Alsónyék-Bátaszék: introduction to a major Neolithic settlement complex in south-east Transdanubia, Hungary

Abstract

The excavations and ongoing investigations of the site of Alsónyék-Bátaszék in south-west Hungary, remarkable for both its longevity and size, are introduced. Its occupation encompasses the succession of the Starcevo, Linearbandkeramik culture (LBK), Sopot and Lengyel periods, from the earlier sixth to the mid-fifth millennium cal BC. The papers devoted to its chronology that follow in this volume are sketched, covering the Bayesian approach adopted and other aspects of methodology, period by period modelling of an extensive series of radiocarbon dates, and finally discussion of the implications of results. The setting of the site in the Tolna Sárköz region of south-east Transdanubia is detailed, and the excavation process described, along with the principal features of the site, period by period. The paper ends by emphasising the extensive nature of ongoing investigations of all aspects of Alsónyék.