Grinding Stone Deposits of the Linear Pottery Culture in Central Germany

• Deposits formed solely of grinding implements were identified and studied in Central Germany for the first time. • The deposits were found near Early Neolithic settlements and landmarks, resembling to those discovered in France and Belgium. • The techno-functional traits of the grinding stones led to their interpretation as a multi-layered metaphor of time. In recent years, three deposits of grinding stones have been discovered in Central Germany, resembling a phenomenon known from the Paris Basin and Belgium. These deposits were more than simple disposals; they likely held ritual or symbolic significance, reflecting the values and beliefs of the community. Their symbolism is diverse, shaped by both the tools themselves and their locations. The condition of the tools—ranging from new to nearly worn-out—adds layers of meaning, suggesting cycles of creation, use, and obsolescence. These symbols, such as fertility, life cycles, and territorial markers, mirror the daily and yearly rhythms of agrarian life. Additionally, they represent human biographies and social relationships, often emphasizing transitional moments such as birth, marriage, and death. A techno-functional analysis of the grinding tools highlights time as a central theme, symbolized through daily routines, seasonal cycles, and human lifespans. Overall, these interpretations reveal the complex and multifaceted nature of the grinding stone deposits, offering valuable insights into the worldviews and practices of past societies.