Living in gilded bronze: commented presentation

Settlement in the Jura during the Bronze Age (2300 BC to 800 BC)

The Bronze Age, the first period of Protohistory, between 2300 and 800 BC, was characterised by the metallurgy of bronze (an alloy of copper and tin), accompanied by major technological innovations and societal changes.

For a long time, archaeological research was limited to finds of weapons and metal objects buried in the ground, excavations of cave or lake dwellings, and burial mounds that were clearly visible in the landscape and often rich in artefacts. Recent advances in preventive archaeology now provide a better picture of the geographical distribution of the various sites from this period, and give us a better understanding of the daily lives of the people who lived there. Sedentary since the Neolithic period, Bronze Age people perfected their farming techniques, making it easier to exploit the land, and gradually became virtuosos in bronze metallurgy. Craftsmen developed highly technical skills in textiles, ceramics, gold (goldsmithing) and bronze (brassware). A complex, hierarchical society was established to control the transportation of minerals and other sought-after goods such as amber, silver and salt.

To find out more, don't miss the guided presentation at 2.30pm (free):
- Sunday 1 June,
- Wednesday 4 June.

Free admission throughout the month (free with museum ticket).