Geoarchaeological Investigations of Midden‐Formation Processes in the Early to Late Ceramic Neolithic Levels at Çatalhöyük, Turkey ca. 8550–8370 cal BP

Midden deposits at Çatalhöyük, dating from the early to late ceramic Neolithic (ca. 8550–8370 cal BP), reveal a complex and diverse range of activities through detailed geoarchaeological analysis. These deposits, composed of ashes, charred plant materials, decayed organic matter, fecal waste, and sedimentary aggregates, demonstrate varied depositional pathways linked to in situ burning with different fuel types. The study highlights the necessity of an integrated microstratigraphic approach, combining thin-section micromorphology, phytolith analysis, and geochemical techniques, to accurately reconstruct cultural and palaeoenvironmental histories at the site.

Shillito, L.-M., & Matthews, W. (2012). Geoarchaeological Investigations of Midden‐Formation Processes in the Early to Late Ceramic Neolithic Levels at Çatalhöyük, Turkey ca. 8550–8370 cal BP. Geoarchaeology, 28(1), 25–49. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/gea.21427