"Exploring the origins of urbanism--the emergence and development of the first cities, has long constituted one of the main challenges of archaeological and ancient historical research. Studying cities in a long-term and cross-cultural perspective links the past with the present, allowing a better understanding of one of the most important developments in human history. The 21 papers in this volume aim to bring together the latest continental and English-speaking research with contributions by well-established researchers and younger colleagues providing innovative perspectives. Contributions cover an area stretching from central Spain to Moravia and from southern France to Britain. The aim has been to produce a work of reference for readers interested in Iron Age archaeology in particular, and in urbanisation processes in general"--Provided by publisher.