ALCUNE CONSIDERAZIONI SUL RUOLO DI ROCA NEI RAPPORTI TRA CRETA E L’ITALIA NEL II MILLENNIO A.C.

Abstract

The archaeological exploration of the peninsula of Roca (Lecce), carried out by the University of Salento, has brought to light one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the central Mediterranean. A rich series of Aegean and Aegean-type ceramics has been found in the site. Apart from pottery, many items of clear Minoan origin have also been found, which became particularly relevant with regard to the legendary tradition of the landing of shipwrecked Cretans on Apulian shores, referred to by Herodotus.

This paper examines some recent discoveries, which seem to confirm the hypothesis of a close relationship between Apulia and Crete during the Bronze Age. The new archaeological evidence concerns both technological processes, in particular the production of red purple dye, and cult activities, such as animal sacrifices, ceremonial depositions of bull-heads (bucrania?), and rites possibly connected with the worship of the sun.