Periodisation and Chronology of the Period from the 14th to the 6th century BC in the Morava–Vardar Basin

This paper explores the development of archaeological periodisation and chronological models for the Morava–Vardar basin from the 14th to the 6th century BC. It presents a critical overview of how periodisation serves as a fundamental analytical tool in archaeological research, enabling clearer communication and cultural interpretation. The study examines various approaches to dividing this millennium into named chronological units, focusing on stratigraphic and spatial indicators used to define material culture phases. Special attention is given to the transitional period between the Late Bronze Age and the Early Iron Age, with an emphasis on how regional variability and interpretive flexibility affect the construction of chronological frameworks. By contextualising local schemes within broader South-eastern European traditions, the paper underscores the need for regionally grounded periodisation models that integrate typology, absolute dating, and historical interpretation.