The Archaeology of the Northwestern Slavs (Seventh To Ninth Centuries)
Sebastian Brather
Abstract Twenty years ago things seemed to be quite clear: several different groups of Slavs had invaded East Central Europe at some point during the sixth century, and all archaeologically identifiable, cultural characteristics pointed a Slavic 'homeland' in Eastern Europe. More recent research, however, has shown this rather simplistic view past. This paper is intended as an overview current archaeological research on early Middle Ages that responsible for radical change last decade or so. Dendrochronology, new approaches, critical assessment historiography problem contribute now understanding. The material culture - pottery, hillforts, settlement features, burials can explained terms contemporary situation Europe, i. e., consolidation patterns, economic structures, society. Exactly what means debate about 'origins' western remains matter further discussion.
East Central Europe