Contacts of Bronze - Early Iron Age Archaeological Cultures with Synchronous Cultures of the Outer World (General overview)

Archaeological evidence from Upper Svaneti, Western Georgia, reveals significant cultural exchanges between Bronze-Early Iron Age societies and contemporary cultures across the Caucasus and beyond. Close contacts with Upper Imereti, pre-Maykop, Dolmen, Proto-Colchian, Maykop, Digoria, Mtkvari-Araks, Beden, and Proto-Hittite cultures are documented through pottery, stone artifacts, and metal objects. These interactions likely occurred via Central Caucasus mountain passes, facilitating the movement of goods such as bronze axes from Central Transcaucasia to Western Georgia. Imported pottery in southwestern Colchis further suggests ties with Asia Minor. The study highlights Upper Svaneti's role as a cultural bridge, integrating local traditions with broader Eurasian networks during this period.

Jibladze, L. (2021). Contacts of Bronze - Early Iron Age Archaeological Cultures with Synchronous Cultures of the Outer World (General overview). South Caucasus – Archaeological Context, (1), 109–127. https://doi.org/10.52147/2667-9353/2021-1-109-127