Prehistoric Architecture: Megaliths, Dwellings, and Burials
Prehistoric Architecture
Prehistoric architecture refers to the earliest architectural structures of which remnants still exist. Prehistoric buildings can be broadly classified into two categories:
Megalithic Constructions
Derived from the Greek words megas (large) and lithos (stone), these structures are characterized by enormous blocks of uncut or roughly hewn stone. They are either found buried in the ground or forming a lintel structure with two upright stones supporting a horizontal stone. Notably, they do not utilize any form of binding agent or mortar to maintain their position. These constructions emerged during the Neolithic period and continued to be built into the early Copper Age. The main types of megalithic constructions are:
- Menhirs: Large stones, vertically embedded in the ground. It is believed they were associated with sun worship or astronomical observation.
- Dolmens: Lintel structures, often attributed to burial purposes.
- Cromlechs: Large circular enclosures composed of menhirs, believed to have served as sanctuaries.
- Lineups: Rows of menhirs.
Cyclopean Constructions
The term “Cyclopean” originates from Greece, where these structures were attributed to the mythical Cyclops giants. These buildings employ a simpler construction technique, using partially squared or unsquared stones. The stones are smaller in volume compared to megalithic structures, and occasionally, clay mortar is used. They often feature ornaments and walls. Cyclopean constructions belong to the Copper, Bronze, or Iron Ages.
Housing in Prehistoric Architecture
Various types of prehistoric structures served as temporary or permanent residences:
- Caverns or Caves: Natural or artificial cavities modified by humans for their use.
- Huts or Cabins: Constructed from branches and timber.
- Palafitos: Lake dwellings made of wood, raised on stilts and anchored to the bottom of lakes or marshes. Notable examples are found in the lakes of Geneva, Switzerland, covering 150,000 square meters and containing the largest known grouping of stilts. These structures date back to the Neolithic period and are believed to have been built for defense against wild animals.
- Crannoges: Typical of Ireland, these are artificial islands built in lakes, designed to prevent the passage of water.
- Terramares: Huts made of wood and clay, located in marshy areas, primarily found in Italy. Associated with these are kiokenmoddingos (Danish for “kitchen middens”), which are deposits formed by mounds of shells, ashes, coal, bones, stones, and pottery, found in Denmark and other locations.
Materials used in prehistoric housing construction included:
- Animal bones for floors and walls.
- Animal skins and branches for roofs.
Burials in Prehistoric Architecture
Dolmens served as burial vaults. These massive stone structures were located outside the tomb and contained one or more chambers, which could be round, square, or polygonal. These chambers were connected to the outside through a corridor, which could also be a lintel structure. The entire structure was often protected by a mound of stones, sometimes reinforced with stone armor. Besides dolmens, smaller individual graves have also been discovered. Additionally, cists, which are stone boxes, and mounds have been found.