A Neolithic Village

A Neolithic Village

Early Neolithic (around 5,000 BCE)

Animal husbandry and plant cultivation skills reached us from the southeast (today's Turkey).

At least two families (for mutual assistance) look for a site with the best soil quality, and fell trees to create a central clearing in the forest. They use the timber to erect their typical 'long houses'. In addition, they establish fields to grow grain, and gardens for vegetables.

To protect crops and garden produce, livestock is kept away from the settlement over the summer (summer pasture). However, wild forest animals (boar and deer) must also be fended off.

Most materials required for survival can be found in the surrounding area. Special goods are acquired by bartering.

A cemetery is established a short distance away.