"The Civilization of the Goddess: The World of Old Europe" by Marija Gimbutas is a seminal work that explores the prehistoric cultures of Old Europe through the lens of archaeology, mythology, and symbolism. Published in 1991, the book presents Gimbutas' groundbreaking research on the Neolithic and Bronze Age societies that existed in southeastern Europe from approximately 6500 to 3500 BCE.

In "The Civilization of the Goddess," Gimbutas challenges traditional interpretations of prehistoric societies and argues for the existence of a peaceful and egalitarian civilization that venerated the feminine principle as symbolized by the Great Goddess. Drawing on archaeological evidence, including artifacts, settlements, and burial sites, as well as iconography and mythology, she presents a compelling narrative of a society organized around principles of cooperation, sustainability, and reverence for nature.

Gimbutas discusses the role of women in Old European societies, highlighting their central role in religious rituals, artistic expression, and community life. She explores the symbolism of goddess imagery found in pottery, figurines, and other artifacts, arguing that these representations reflect a worldview in which the sacred feminine was revered as the source of life, fertility, and regeneration.

Throughout the book, Gimbutas traces the cultural and social developments of Old Europe, from its early agricultural settlements to its later urban centers, and examines the ways in which these societies interacted with neighboring cultures. She also discusses the eventual decline of Old European civilization and its transformation into the patriarchal societies of the Bronze Age.

"The Civilization of the Goddess" is widely regarded as a seminal work in the fields of archaeology, anthropology, and feminist studies, influencing scholars and researchers interested in the role of gender, symbolism, and spirituality in ancient societies. Gimbutas' work has sparked ongoing debates and discussions about the nature of prehistoric civilizations and the significance of the feminine in human history.