1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Archaeology

Bell Beaker Culture

By , About.com Guide

Definition: The culture known as Bell Beaker is the largest portion of the loosely grouped Beaker Folk, named for a very particular type of ceramic vessel, shaped like an upside-down bell. A very widespread culture throughout most of central Europe, the Bell-beaker folk were pastoralists from the Late Copper Age (Chalcolithic) into the Early Bronze Age, ca. 4000-2000 BC.

Also see the Linearbandkeramik culture for more information.

This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
Also Known As: Glockenbecher (German) and Gobelet campaniforme (French)
Examples:
Budakalász (Hnugary),

Explore Archaeology

About.com Special Features

A Smarter Future

Tips that will help finance your education, excel in the classroom, and advance your career. More >

How to Ace the GRE

Being well prepared is the first step; here are more essential suggestions. More >

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Archaeology
  4. Archaeology 101
  5. Glossary
  6. B Terms
  7. Bc through Bl
  8. Bell Beaker Culture>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.