The Archaeological Site of Tenta
The ancient settlement of Tenta in Kalavasos, located in the southern-central part of Cyprus, is a significant archaeological site that offers valuable insights into the early Neolithic period on the island. This prehistoric site, dating back to approximately 7000 BCE, is one of the earliest known settlements in Cyprus and plays a crucial role in understanding the island’s human history.
Geographic and Environmental Context
Tenta is situated near the modern village of Kalavasos, on a small hill overlooking the Vasilikos River. The site’s location was strategic, offering its inhabitants access to water, fertile land, and natural resources. The surrounding landscape would have been rich in flora and fauna, providing the settlers with ample opportunities for farming, hunting, and gathering. The proximity to the river also facilitated the transportation of goods and communication with other nearby communities.
Archaeological Discoveries
The site of Tenta was first excavated in the 1940s by the British archaeologist Porphyrios Dikaios and later by the Department of Antiquities of Cyprus. The excavations revealed a wealth of information about the settlement’s structure, economy, and culture. The most striking feature of Tenta is the well-preserved circular dwellings, a characteristic architectural style of the Neolithic period in Cyprus. These structures were built using mudbrick and stone, with walls that were often plastered and painted with geometric designs.
The settlement appears to have been organized around a central area, which may have served as a communal space for social and religious activities. The houses were closely packed, suggesting a tightly-knit community. The discovery of various tools, pottery, and figurines provides evidence of the daily life of the inhabitants. The tools, made from flint and obsidian, indicate that the people of Tenta were skilled in craftsmanship and likely engaged in activities such as farming, hunting, and food processing.
Cultural Significance
Tenta holds significant cultural importance, as it provides insight into the early stages of human settlement on Cyprus. The site’s architecture, particularly the circular dwellings, reflects the broader Neolithic tradition found across the eastern Mediterranean. This architectural style is indicative of a sedentary lifestyle, with the inhabitants investing time and resources into the construction of durable homes.
One of the most remarkable finds at Tenta is a series of female figurines, often interpreted as representations of fertility goddesses. These figurines suggest that the people of Tenta may have practised some form of ritual or worship centred around fertility and the cycles of nature. The presence of such artefacts highlights the spiritual and cultural dimensions of the community’s life.
Economic and Social Organization
The economy of Tenta was likely based on a combination of agriculture, animal husbandry, and trade. The fertile land surrounding the settlement would have supported the cultivation of cereals, legumes, and possibly fruit trees. The remains of domesticated animals, such as sheep and goats, indicate that livestock farming was also a significant aspect of the economy. The community likely engaged in trade with neighbouring settlements, exchanging goods such as obsidian, which was not locally available, for other commodities.
The social organization of Tenta can be inferred from the layout of the settlement and the artefacts discovered. The proximity of the dwellings suggests a communal lifestyle, with social interactions likely revolving around shared economic and religious activities. The presence of communal spaces indicates that the community may have held gatherings or ceremonies, reinforcing social bonds and collective identity.
Preservation and Legacy
Today, the site of Tenta is protected under a modern shelter, which was constructed to preserve the remains of the settlement. This shelter not only protects the archaeological remains from the elements but also allows visitors to appreciate the site’s historical significance. Tenta is an important part of Cyprus’s cultural heritage, offering a glimpse into the island’s prehistoric past.
In conclusion, the ancient settlement of Tenta in Kalavasos is a vital archaeological site that provides a window into the early Neolithic period in Cyprus. Its well-preserved structures, artifacts, and evidence of social and economic organization contribute to our understanding of the development of human societies in the eastern Mediterranean.
