NEOLITHIC REVOLUTION

Archäologische Landesausstellung Nordrhein-Westfalen

Man lived as a hunter and gatherer for 2.5 million years. Depending on the seasons and the migrations of his catches, he traversed the various landscapes, adapting to the most varying climatic conditions. 12,000 years ago, at the end of the last Ice Age, a fundamental change came about: Man began to settle down. Established settlements with solid buildings, he started planting grains and raising cattle. This Neolithic Revolution is more important in the history of man than the Industrial Revolution of the 19th century. It stands at the very beginning of modern European civilization and at the same time, it marks the departure point for many achievements, but also problems of our present day.

First indications for the Neolithic Revolution may be found in the "fertile crescent" of northern Syria and southern Turkey. But what happened there in the Middle East 12,000 years ago? How did farm-life come to Central Europe a little less than 8,000 years ago? What happened to the hunters and gatherers? How did the first farmers and livestock breeders live in North-Rhine Westphalia? These are only a few of the central questions that are answered on the basis of archeological findings from one of Europe's most important cultural landscapes.

This epoch, during which "Ötzi lived" and Stonehenge was built, also witnessed outstanding cultural and technological innovations that pointed the way to the future: the invention of the wheel, mining, and Europewide bartering networks. The first farmers and cattle breeders were also pioneers of metalworking, pottery-making, and carpentry techniques. They built monumental graves, houses up to 60 meters in length, and sites with strong, enclosing bulwarks. In doing so, they cleared the forests, triggering massive changes in the environment.

The latest research results from recent years make it possible for the first time to gain detailed insights into the fates of individual persons from the Neolithic Period in the North-Rhine Westphalia region. Modern research methods provide information concerning the origin, diet, illnesses, and the exact age, even allowing us to make concrete reconstructions of the faces. The exhibition not only introduces one of the most fascinating epochs in the history of mankind, but also explains the use of the most modern archeological methods. It shows a completely new, lively, and compelling picture of the Neolithic Period, and furnishes numerous surprising references to our world of today. Unique findings provide unforeseen insights into life thousands of years ago. Various "hands-on" areas and elaborate media stations make the exhibition an unusual experience for young and old.

A comprehensive and wide-ranging framework program of events that consists of lectures, workshops, family days, and more provides insights into the latest research and impressive skills and knowledge of these first farmers and cattle breeders.

Join in and be a part of the NEOLITHIC REVOLUTION! Find out more at:

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NRW-STIFTUNG, Natur, Heimat, Kultur

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