Montenegro Unveils Comprehensive Archaeological Lexicon

The Crnogorska akademija nauka i umjetnosti (CANU) has recently released a significant publication titled the “Leksikon arheologije Crne Gore,” offering a comprehensive overview of Montenegro’s archaeological heritage from prehistory to the 16th century. This lexicon, the sixth in CANU’s series, is the result of extensive collaboration among various scientific institutions and experts in the field, with Dr. Dejan Gazivoda serving as the chief editor.

This new lexicon encompasses 519 entries, with 406 articles specifically detailing concepts related to Montenegrin archaeology, archaeological sites, significant movable finds, and relevant national institutions. The publication also includes a summary article that profiles researchers and travel writers from the 15th century up until World War II. Additionally, it features biographical entries for 112 archaeologists and related professionals, highlighting their crucial contributions to the development of Montenegrin archaeology.

The collaborative effort involved 52 authors from Montenegro and neighboring regions, including Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Slovenia, Albania, Poland, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The lexicon is richly illustrated, containing photographs of sites and finds, drawings, technical documentation, and a detailed map of archaeological locations. This map, created from various segments, allows readers to visualize the spatial distribution of these sites across Montenegro.

Dr. Gazivoda emphasized that the “Leksikon arheologije Crne Gore” serves as a reliable reference source and a comprehensive database intended for scholars, students, and enthusiasts of archaeological heritage. A digital version of the publication will soon be accessible on the CANU website. This digital edition will facilitate content exploration, regular data updates, and ongoing enhancements of this important resource.

The official launch of the lexicon took place at CANU, marking a significant milestone in the documentation and preservation of Montenegro’s archaeological legacy. As researchers and the public gain access to this vital information, it promises to enrich understanding and appreciation of the country’s rich historical narrative.