Skopje, 1 April 2026 (MIA) — Archaeology magazine has highlighted prehistoric Macedonian culture in its latest issue, featuring an in-depth look at Neolithic "anthropomorphic house models" discovered in the country, the Center for Prehistoric Research said in a press release Wednesday. 

Calling it one of the highest acknowledgments of the country’s cultural heritage, the center noted that the article explores the global history of ancient house models "with a special focus on those discovered in Macedonia."

Archaeologist Goce Naumov, who was consulted for the piece, told the magazine that these artifacts reflect significant social changes during the Neolithic period.

He also highlighted the ritual nature of the Neolithic houses expressed through the ceramic house models featuring human-like shapes, "first crafted in Pelagonia and later throughout Macedonia." 

The models also served as commemorative lamps, used to honor the founders of the Neolithic houses and their spiritual guardians.

According to the center, the interest of this top journal in Macedonian anthropomorphic house models shows both that they have been well-represented in major international publications by Macedonian archaeologists and that the global public is curious about their mysterious role.

The center also said the piece was a significant step in bringing these "extraordinary prehistoric objects" to a wider audience. 

"However, there is still a need for greater recognition and protection of these unique artifacts," the release said. mr/