Poliochne

Poliochne (also transliterated as Poliochni) was an Early Bronze Age settlement on the island of Lemnos in Greece, considered one of the oldest cities in the Aegean. Archaeological excavations have revealed multiple phases of occupation, labeled Poliochne I (Blue) through Poliochne IV (Red), each representing a distinct period of construction, destruction, and rebuilding. These phases span from approximately 3200 BC to 2000 BC.

The settlement is notable for its sophisticated urban planning, including evidence of paved streets, stone-built houses, and a complex drainage system. The discovery of a fortified wall, considered one of the earliest known examples of urban fortification in Europe, suggests a need for defense and points towards a degree of social complexity and organization within the community.

The "Red" phase (Poliochne IV) marks a significant turning point in the site's history, showing signs of a major destruction, possibly by fire, after which the settlement was abandoned. Theories surrounding the cause of this destruction range from warfare or invasion to natural disasters.

The finds from Poliochne offer valuable insights into the material culture, social organization, and technological advancements of the Early Bronze Age Aegean. The site's layout, architecture, and artifacts provide comparative data for understanding the development of urban centers and societal structures in the broader Aegean region during this crucial period. Poliochne's archaeological significance lies in its contribution to understanding the transition from Neolithic to Bronze Age societies and the emergence of early urban life in the Aegean.