Troy III-V

New radiocarbon dates confirm a gap in Blegen՚s sequence

Abstract

To investigate the dating of Troy III-V, and in particular to test whether in Blegen's Troy sequence a gap exists between Troy III and Troy IV, 26 bone samples covering Troy III to VIa from the University of Cincinnati excavations were submitted for 14C-AMS analysis. Excluding outliers, they yield dates that are consistent with a chronological scheme which includes a 110±20 year gap after Troy III, with Troy IV beginning 2060±10 cal BC. The hypothesis of a Proto-IV period which might bridge the gap, featuring deposits known only from the more recent excavations, can therefore be entertained.