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it was particularly important to investigate the   We would like to thank the excavation staff,
               natural (topographic) conditions alongside oth-  in particular Matija Makarun and Mateja Bariče-
               er archaeological questions.                vić, for sharing the results of the recent rescue ex-
                   Although the precise timing remains uncer-  cavations in Osor (2022–2025) with us. These ex-
               tain in the moment, the gradual increase in ter-  cavations were led by the Croatian Conservation
                                                 14
               restrial organic carbon and the initial  C data   Institute. We would also like to express our sin-
               suggest that an increased contribution, possibly   cere thanks to Igor Miholjek, Croatian Conserva-
               resulting from human activities such as deforest-  tion Institute and his team of divers. Our speci-
               ation, may have started as early as 5621–5313 cal   al goes to the residents of Osor, particularly Ser-
               BP (3672–3364 cal BC). It is also plausible that   gio Zuclich, Mirjana Jurlina and Đoni Britvec, for
                                                           sharing their memories of Osor’s history with us
               material from the Lošinj Channel wetland was   during countless conversations and their help du-
               transported by currents towards Osor Bay. This   ring the field work. Finally, we would like to thank
               suggests that marine communication through   Mia Rizner, Conservation Department in Rijeka,   35
               present-day Osor Channel was feasible during   for providing efficient support and cooperation.
               the Bronze Age. More precise dating and ge-
               ochemical proxies will allow marine commu-  References
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               Acknowledgements                                Early Human Societies in the Central
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               The presented paper is part of a research project   Interdisciplinary Review.’ Quaternary
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               an Science Fund (FWF): Grant-DOI: 10.55776/  Benndorf, O. von. 1880. ‘Ausgrabungen in
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