Dynamics of the diffusion of funerary beliefs in the Mediterranean: Evidence from artefacts of the libyco-punic necropolises of Algeria

Abstract

This paper covers the topic of exogenous artefacts retrieved from Libyan-Punic cemeteries along the Algerian coastline. Within the Algerian context, these artefacts should not only be regarded as rituals related to a conception of the afterlife; they also reflect forms of contact, of movement and of exchange on a Mediterranean scale. This research aims at gaining more insight into the mechanisms through which these imports have been incorporated into the local funerary practices, as well as the modalities allowing for the spread of material traditions and beliefs in the pre-Roman societies.

The main issue lies in transcending the conventional conceptions related to these objects, so far regarded as mere commercial and chronological indicators, and investigating the true meaning of their presence as part of a thought process related to the funerary rituals of the Libyan-Punic communities. This investigation is part of a broader perspective through which a deeper understanding of the role of intercultural exchanges in shaping the pre-Roman funerary landscape is targeted.

Thus, this research aims at identifying the various exogenous artefact categories retrieved from the graves, defining the supply network systems to which they are related, thus refining our understanding of their function as part of the funerary customs, as well as the social distinction strategies associated with them.

The methodology opted for is based on a trans-analytical approach, which combines both the typological and cultural analysis of the grave furnishings with the sepulchral architecture and the associated practices observed within the tombs. The material data used is derived from six necropoleis, which stretch along the Algerian coastline, encompassing the sites of Rachgoun and Collo and including the sites of Les Andalouses, Gouraya, Tipasa and Jijel. All of these sites were dated between the seventh and the first centuries BC.

The results highlight a progressive evolution of the Mediterranean exchange network systems. The initial Greek imports were progressively replaced by the Iberian and Punic-Ebusitan products, particularly present within the Algerian western necropoleis. Beginning from the 3rd century BC, Italic imports have acquired a greater significance, reflecting a commercial network reconfiguration in which the Algerian coastline has gained a more important place in the Roman economic sphere. It should nevertheless be highlighted that these artefacts were not passively adopted since their incorporation into the funerary contexts reflects selective adoption mechanisms through which the exogenous influence was rearranged according to the local perceptions of death as well as of the afterlife. Thus, these artefacts can be regarded as being more than simple items reflecting social acculturation. They rather testify to a cultural hybridisation process within the Libyan-Punic societies.

Key words: Ancient Mediterranean, cultural exchanges, libyan-punic necropolises, funerary artefacts.