Before the neolithization: Causes of mesolithic diversity in the Southern Balkans

摘要: The Balkans, particularly southern and central, were sparsely populated in the Mesolithic occupation networks that period discontinous highly diversified, contrasting with density homogeneity of Early Neolithic. aim this paper is to describe environmental conditions sites relation Holocene climatic fluctuations discuss causes specificity diversity culture behaviour at period. Some general trends are observable adaptation environments (trends faunal exploitation; for ex. shift from high ranked large game low small animals) but also particular adaptations local (technological changes due difficulties access better quality lithic raw materials, coastal or terrestrial resources reflecting unique features site use, etc). The reflected cultural taxonomy: some sequences continuity Balkan Epigravettian techno-morphological tradition can be seen as opposed, other sequences, isolated groups technology tool morphology adapted materials specific activities. was not completely cut-off Western Mediterranean influences (particularly Southern Greece) Anatolian traditions (seen only Northern Aegean). A more intensive network marine contacts confirmed by obsidian circulation Aegean Basin.