Reuse and Cult at the Mycenaean tombs of Kephalonia in the Ancient Historical Periods

The reuse of Mycenaean tombs for cult purposes in the historical periods, usually referred to as tomb cult, is documented in many parts of Greece and to date a long bibliography exists on the subject. This could take the form of new burials in the tombs, but more commonly it is manifested by the deposition in the interior of the tombs or their immediate vicinity of offerings of pottery vessels, jewellery, figurines, loom-weights, miniature vessels or other small objects. Less common is the occurrence of burnt layers of animal bones (possible evidence of sacrifices or meals), or the re-arrangement and removal of human bones. Only exceptionally are altars or shrines erected in association with the tombs.