Pages: 269-280

The burial mound Gruda Boljevića belongs to the group of large Montenegrin tumuli, dated to the beginning of the Early Bronze Age (around the second quarter of 3rd millenium BC), which also includes Mala and Velika Gruda, as well as the destroyed tumulus near Rubeћa. Main characteristics of this group of barrows are monumental mounds and rich central graves, for which mounds were erected. These features outline the group as an independent phenomenon within its cultural milieu, the complexes being named “princely or ruler tombs” by researchers. The monumentality of the barrows, as well as the richness of the graves reflect social stratification, namely the existence of a leading aristocracy stratum in the Early Bronze Age society in the Adriatic region. Such a concentration of rich graves has been identified only in Montenegro, proving that this area has been one of the most important foci in the historical and social development of the Adriatic region in Early Bronze Age.

Keywords: Burial mound, princely grave, Montenegro, Early Bronze Age, Adriatic cultural circle

Information about authors: 

Mile Baković (Podgorica, Montenegro). Archaeological Research Center of Montenegro, Podgorica.
Е-mail: [email protected]
Blagoje Govedarica (Berlin, Germany). Professor. German Archaeological Institute.
Е-mail: [email protected]