Both referees agree that the paper of Sadori et al. constitutes a well-done study that significantly contributes to our knowledge of biotic and environmental change in the Balkan region based on an exceptionally long pollen record. The reviewers also provided very constructive suggestions on how this study can be further improved. In particular, they asked for an enhanced age model, information on quality assurance of pollen determination, and for clarifications regarding the Pinus data.
Judging from the response of the authors, I feel that these questions can be adequately addressed. I therefore invite the authors to submit a revised version for a final decision, which is based on their responses to the suggestions of the referees published during the interactive discussion.

The authors did a very good job in revising their ms and they adequately addressed the concerns of the referees. However, before that paper can be published, the authors would need to update their reference list, particularly in respect to the other papers of the current special issue.