The Transformation of Europe in the Third Millennium BC, Part 1, marks a groundbreaking milestone in our understanding of the Bell Beaker phenomenon (c. 2700–2000 BC), one of the most pivotal chapters in European prehistory.
This volume, the product of the second Riva del Garda conference, presents a dynamic collection of 32 contributions across six thematic chapters, authored by 54 scholars from over 15 countries. Drawing on the latest discoveries and cutting-edge research, it offers new insights into the origins and spread of Bell Beakers, their social and ideological dimensions, regional identities, ritual and economic practices, as well as the implications of ancient DNA. Together, these studies provide a comprehensive synthesis of how Beaker communities connected distant regions, profoundly shaping the cultural landscapes of western Europe.
This first part of the Transformation of Europe in the Third Millennium BC series is a significant scholarly achievement, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of this transformative period in European prehistory.
Yamnaya 7 in Trento
The Riva del Garda II conference, which served as the foundation for this publication, would not have been possible without the tireless contributions of numerous institutions and individuals. Special thanks are owed to Maija Holappa in Helsinki, whose expert editorial support and coordination ensured the successful completion of the volume. We also express our gratitude to Katalin Sebők and Erzsébet Jerem of Archaeolingua for their continued dedication to disseminating archaeological research through the YMPACT series.
We are particularly appreciative of Elisabetta Mottes, whose encouragement and leadership made the idea of a new conference a reality, and to the colleagues from the Ufficio Beni Archeologici, whose involvement in the conference organization was indispensable. Heartfelt thanks also go to the dedicated team behind the scientific secretariat, the conference logistics, and the graphic design that brought this project to life.
All participants of the 2023 Riva del Garda II conference in the newly arranged garden next to the Centro Congressi (photo by K. Wentink)
Financial and organizational support from the Autonomous Province of Trento, Riva del Garda Fierecongressi, and other partners were key to the success of both the conference and the publication. The University of Helsinki, through its ERC YMPACT project, also played a crucial role in facilitating the conference and the wider research endeavor.
As we look forward to the second part of this international conference series, which will be based on the presentations of the April 2024 follow-up event in Budapest, we are excited to further explore the far-reaching implications of the Yamnaya, Corded Ware and Globular Amphora phenomena on the evolution of European societies. Stay tuned for more developments as we continue to unravel the mysteries of this fascinating transformative era in prehistory.
17 December 2025
Franco Nicolis, Trento
Gabriella Kulcsár, Budapest
Volker Heyd, Helsinki
