Settlement Dynamics and Cultural Interactions in the Lake District: Analyzing Early Bronze Age Pottery of Kuşluca Within Its Regional Context at Beyşehir

Abstract

Beyşehir is located in the Lake District of Türkiye, along key routes linking Western Anatolia, the Mediterranean coast, and the southeastern Mediterranean region. Its strategic position, and that of the broader Lake District, has attracted scholarly interest since early times, with the earliest detailed accounts provided by travelers. Although limited excavations focusing on prehistoric periods were undertaken in the past, they were short-lived. Subsequent research has primarily consisted of archaeological surveys, which have confirmed the region’s enduring geographical significance throughout its settlement history. Currently, no excavations are being conducted that address the prehistoric and protohistoric periods in the area. This study presents the results of a survey project initiated in 2012 around Beyşehir, focusing on the Early Bronze Age settlement at Kuşluca and its rich ceramic assemblages. It also explores the broader cultural development of Beyşehir and its interactions with neighboring regions during this period. Additionally, other Early Bronze Age settlements identified during the surveys are examined in terms of ceramic data and spatial distribution. Based on these evaluations, the study proposes settlement models that contribute to understanding regional dynamics and highlights Beyşehir’s role within the Lake District during the Early Bronze Age.