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Caves have been known as archeological sites since the earliest periods of prehistory and their use in the Bronze Age has been recorded throughout Europe (Drechsler-Bižić 1984:630). In the area of northwestern Croatia only three cave sites of the Early Bronze Age are known. Only a few fragments of ceramic vessels have been found that can be attributed to a given period and it is not possible to trace the continuity to later periods. In contrast, in the area of Lika there is a number of cave sites with a relatively clearly defined function and a multitude of movable and immovable archaeological finds that can be dated throughout the Bronze Age (Malinar 1998: 146, Bakarić 2017:21). The differences between northwestern and central Croatia in the number and stage of research of archeological cave sites of the Early and Middle Bronze Age are obvious, but there are indications that the number of such sites is actually higher than the number we are currently aware of and that further research can provide new information to complete the existing ones. Comparing open-air sites and caves (with an emphasis on graves as the most numerous type of site), special attention will be paid to metal and ceramic finds as cultural and chronological determinants that in this case mark adaptation and at the same time preservation of tradition in the Bronze Age society (Malinar 1998:146). Local pottery production specific to the area of central Croatia indicates a close connection with the local area and the homogeneity of the community, but at the same time a few metal objects, found mainly in graves or out of context, indicate open communication and flow of goods with Central Europe. This paper will discuss the number, position and function of all known Bronze Age cave sites in northwestern and central Croatia and will consider the continuity and purpose of use of such sites in the Bronze Age in relation to other simultaneous open-air graves and settlements. Furthermore, this presentation will discuss the development of individual communities and the opening of new communication routes |
