Evolution of the ceramic production at the Alpine site of Castel de Pedena: technology and innovation between the Recent Bronze Age and the early Iron Age

Castel de Pedena (northeastern Italy) was a hillfort settlement located in the Venetian Prealps at 680 m above the sea level, in a position that likely conferred upon it a linking role between the Venetian plain and the Alpine areas. The first occupation of the area is dated to the Early Bronze Age, and continues, although intermittently, until the early phase of the Iron Age. The analysis of its Recent Bronze Age to Iron Age pottery assemblage has underlined the use of different recipes for the ceramic production over time. Variations in the raw material selection, clay processing choices, and firing conditions demonstrate a significant shift in the ceramic technology, and therefore, in the potters technological habits.