Definition: The archaeological site called Thapsos is a Middle Bronze Age site on the island of Sicily near Syracuse, and the type site for the Thapsos culture. The site dates between about 1400 and 1200 BC, and consists of a collection of round or oval huts and a huge cemetery of about 450 rock-cut tombs. Thapsos culture people were very fond of the classic Aegean Sea cultures, and their rock cut tombs are remiscent of traditional Mycenaean tholos tombs. The site was investigated by Paolo Orsi in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
Also Known As: Thapsos culture is also called Pantalica
Examples:
Caltagirone, Cassibile, Mothya, and Pantalica are also Thapsos culture sites.
