About the issue of Stećci from the Dalmatian perspective

In: Godišnjak Centra za balkanološka ispitivanja, Heft 42, S. 89-102

Abstract

Article discusses the late medieval monolithic tombstones – Stećci, mainly the so-called ridge Dalmatian type, their cultural affiliation and time of origin since the previous studies are still seeking a satisfactory answer to this important issue. Assessment on these issues in this disscussion are not offering a new theory, but it endeavors to develop and deepen oneof those previously presented. In particular, it tries to strengthen the assumptions of the authors who associated genesis and development of these monumental tombstones with the Vlachs who were separate ethnicity at that time in the Western Balkans, and which are, as it is usually interpreted, the rest of the surviving indigenous, mostly Roman or Romanised Illyrianpopulation. Thereat, the argument is built on a completely new facts, and far under-used methodology in the study of tombstones that confronts archaeological findings to well known historical facts. Spatial starting point for this are results of Stećci's research in the area of Cetina in Dalmatia and in the south-west Bosnia.