The Bronze Age in Europe lasted from about 2300 B.C. to about 800 B.C. During this period there was a major shift in metal production toward copper alloys, particularly copper alloyed with tin, to make the material known generically as bronze. These alloys offered the advantages of malleability and durability over materials like copper or stone.

Concurrent with changes in the nature of metallurgy were important developments in the scale of production. Smiths, taking advantage of more efficient production methods, began to turn out thousands of high-quality tools, weapons, and ornaments that were then dispersed throughout Europe via an extensive network of trade routes. A greater of social stratification seems to have occured as well, and objects of copper alloy , often imposing in size and form, became indicators of status.