| Summary: | <p>Much of archaeological and historical research has, until recently, heavily depended on written sources and relatively little evidence regarding the LBA and EIA periods. A number of new developments however, such as the discovery of a palatial site at Aghios Vasileios, the recent excavations at the sanctuary at Amyklai, the identification of Laconian Protogeometric pottery among the offerings of at least two Arcadian sanctuaries (Tegea and Mt. Lykaion) and the continuous work by the Greek Archaeological Service, make it necessary to review the evidence from and re-assess former theories regarding the region during the LBA and EIA periods. </p>
<p>The present study thus offers a new interpretation of the socio-economic and political development of Laconia during the period between 1200 and 700 BC. In order to achieve this, all information from settlements, cemeteries and sanctuaries from the period are examined, including previously unexamined evidence from recent discoveries. Furthermore, it introduces updated catalogues and interpretation of the development of Laconian ceramics from the LH IIIC to the end of the Geometric period.</p>
<p>The analysis suggests that during the LH III period, Laconia was not organised under a central authority, as seen in Messenia for instance, but rather by autonomous centres. Furthermore, that between the Protogeometric and Geometric periods, the region was not abandoned or isolated. Votive offerings at the Spartan sanctuaries and the adoption of certain pottery shapes and decorative motifs indicate that Laconia was aware of and participated in developments taking place throughout Greece. Lastly, the close examination of the pottery strongly suggests that Laconia should not be included in the so-called West Greek koine.
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