Klisoura Cave 1

Why it mattersProvides alternative Upper Palaeolithic sequence to Franchthi, clarifying Greek Aurignacian variability.

Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.

Built

c. 40000 BP (natural cave, occupation from MP)

Period

Middle Palaeolithic to Mesolithic

Culture

Mousterian / Aurignacian / Epigravettian

Purpose

Long-term habitation and lithic workshop

Rediscovered

Modern excavation 19th–20th century

Excavation

Excavated

1. c. 40000 BP (natural cave, occupation from MP)

   Initial construction / first occupation at Klisoura Cave 1

2. 19th century / 1960s

   Antiquarian notice and modern systematic excavation of Klisoura Cave 1

3. 2000s

   Conservation and publication of final reports for Klisoura Cave 1

• Stratigraphic Layer VII (Aurignacian)

  occupation layer

  Aurignacian horizon with carinated endscrapers, Dufour bladelets and personal ornaments

  37.6802° N · 22.5201° E

• Mesolithic Hearth VIIa

  hearth

  Epigravettian-Mesolithic hearth with marine shells and microliths near cave entrance

  37.6799° N · 22.5199° E

• Collapsed Rockshelter Roof Block

  geological feature

  Large collapsed roof block forming southern wall of shelter, used as back wall for occupation

  37.6803° N · 22.5202° E

• Trench 1 Main Section

  excavation trench

  5 m deep reference section exposing all 14 units, curated for geoarchaeology

  37.6798° N · 22.5202° E