Old Europe

Old Europe refers to the early human societies in southeastern Europe, around 6000 to 3500 BCE, during the Neolithic period. These communities were among the first to practice agriculture, domesticating plants and animals, which led to settled villages and population growth. They developed sophisticated pottery, built permanent homes, and engaged in trade. These societies laid foundational cultural practices and social structures that influenced later European civilizations. The term highlights their role as early, stable communities that transitioned from hunter-gatherer lifestyles to farming-based societies.