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Saliagos is a tiny islet today—but in the neolithic it was a low peninsula between Paros and Antiparos

It was one of the earliest farming settlements in the Cyclades
Essentially the birth of permanent life in the Cycladic islands.

The settlement itself lasted about 300 years

It belongs to a broader “Saliagos culture” horizon. Spread across small sites in the Cyclades. But most were temporary camps or activity spots

A real village with rectangular houses with stone foundations was found
There was also evidence of early fortifications. It was surrounded by a defensive wall.

They were likely early Aegean farmers (barley, emmer wheat) with Anatolian connections. Fisherman that herded sheep, goats, and some cattle/pigs)

There is evidence they hunted and fished for large tuna. Also 35+ shellfish species and other fish

Obsidian interpreted as harpoons has been found
Tens of thousands have been analyzed.

Melos was 60 km away; and, Gyali was 200 km. Proving regular open sea travel, and, long distance exchange networks
A permanent base for maritime activity.

They found art: the “Obese Lady of Saliagos”

Pottery has been found. Some geometric designs; and, tableware, some storage vessels
Indicated cooking, storage; and social eating.

The fortifications are among the earliest in the Aegean
It suggests conflict.

The future of Saliagos is interdisciplinary and likely underwater

References: EVANS, J. D., & RENFREW, C. (1968). EXCAVATIONS AT SALIAGOS: NEAR ANTIPAROS. The British School at Athens. Supplementary Volumes, (5), iii–226. http://www.jstor.org/stable/40855954

Lesson 2: Narrative. (n.d.). https://sites.dartmouth.edu/aegean-prehistory/lessons/lesson-2/

Cycladic Prehistory. (n.d.). https://antiparos.gr/en/prehistory/

Early Aegean civilizations. (n.d.). https://www.britannica.com/topic/Aegean-civilization/Early-Aegean-civilizations