Deciphering Neolithic Habitation in Aegean Thrace Through Geophysical Prospection Surveys

ABSTRACT Despite the relatively extensive archaeological research conducted in Greece focusing on the Neolithic period, Aegean Thrace remains one of the least studied regions. To address this gap, the MAPFARM (Mapping the Early Farmers in Thrace) project employed systematic archaeological surface survey combined with large‐scale geophysical prospection techniques to map eight Neolithic settlements in the provinces of Rhodope and Xanthi. These methods were supplemented by the analysis of historical aerial and satellite imagery, geological investigations including borehole sampling, and radiocarbon dating of samples from the cores. The project's primary goals were to assess the extent of the settlements, study their internal characteristics, analyse their spatial organization, gain insights into the duration of habitation and gather information on the environmental conditions surrounding the settlements that may have influenced their development. This comprehensive approach has provided valuable insights into Neolithic habitation in Aegean Thrace.