Pyrgos Archaeological Museum

Prehistoric Settlements in Ilia

Early habitation

Reconstructing a complete picture of prehistoric settlements in Ilia remains difficult because the surviving settlement remains are limited. Nevertheless, numerous stone tools dating to the Middle Palaeolithic (120,000–35,000 BC) attest to human activity in the region, favoured by its mild climate and fertile land.

The earliest peoples to settle in the region were the Caucones, Leleges and Minyans. The Achaeans arrived later and were succeeded by the Dorians.

Settlements and evidence

The remains of organised settlements at Olympia, Lepreo, Kafkania, Strefi, Samiko, Diasella and Kakovatos provide valuable information about social organisation and public life. Other prehistoric sites are known only through burial remains scattered throughout Ilia, including the exceptionally important cemeteries of Agia Triada and Kladeos, whose excavation has offered valuable insights into people’s private lives.

A large number of artefacts clearly attest to settlements, permanent or otherwise, and habitation complexes during prehistory: the Palaeolithic, Neolithic, Early Helladic I–II and Late Helladic periods. These include vessels for eating and drinking (kylikes and bowls), storing liquids (amphorae) and perfumed oils (stirrup jars and alabastra), as well as stone grinding tools, mainly for crushing wheat grains, and equipment associated with the beginnings of productive activity.

Social organisation and pottery

The striking Mycenaean finds from various sites in Ilia point to communities with a clear social hierarchy and specialised occupations, including perfumers, scribes, craftspeople, hunters and warriors. Weapons often indicate social status.

The study of the extensive production of characteristic Mycenaean vessels, such as two-handled and four-handled amphorae and stirrup jars, provides evidence for local pottery production as early as the Mycenaean period.

Everyday life

These objects, with their distinctive local styles and forms, shed light on the cultural life and everyday activities of the wider population.

Finds from Mycenaean tombs also reveal a society based on agriculture, livestock farming and hunting, alongside the development of other specialised crafts. Together, they suggest a considerable standard of living and material comfort for the inhabitants of Ilia.