Excavations at the Late Bronze Age Mega-Fort at Sântana – Cetatea Veche. The 2018 Field Campaign
Excavations at the Late Bronze Age Mega-Fort at Sântana – Cetatea Veche. The 2018 Field Campaign

Summary/Abstract: The 2018 excavation campaign at Sântana-Cetatea Veche focused on the northeastern section of the third fortification, part of a large Late Bronze Age defensive system. Investigations revealed the main structural components of this fortification: an earthen rampart, two ditches, and the remains of two palisades destroyed by fire. Stratigraphic observations combined with AMS radiocarbon dates indicate that the fortification was first built in the 15th century cal BC. It was damaged by fire in the following century, then rebuilt, and most likely destroyed during the mid-13th century cal BC. Artifacts such as clay sling projectiles, burned construction debris, and a bronze arrowhead point to the likelihood of an assault on the fortification during its final phase. In addition, traces of a Copper Age settlement were documented, dating to the mid-43rd to mid-41st centuries cal BC. These observations contribute to a better understanding of long-term settlement dynamics, construction methods, and conflict-related activity in the Lower Mureș region during the Late Bronze Age.

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