Marija Gimbutas
Marija (Alseikaite) Gimbutas was a Lithuanian-American archaeologist renowned for her groundbreaking research on Neolithic and Bronze Age cultures in Europe.
She introduced the concept of "Old Europe" and developed innovative approaches combining traditional archaeology with linguistics and mythology.
Her work, published between 1946 and 1971, challenged existing views on ancient European societies, particularly emphasizing the role of goddess-centered cultures.
Gimbutas' theories, while influential, received mixed reactions from fellow professionals.
Her interdisciplinary methods and interpretations of archaeological evidence sparked debates in academic circles, yet her contributions to the field remain significant, offering new perspectives on prehistoric European civilizations and their religious practices.