Using archaeological data and sediment parameters to review the formation of the Gravettian layers at Krems‐Wachtberg

Abstract

The Gravettian site Krems‐Wachtberg in northeast Austria produced a wealth of archaeological and sedimentary data. Precondition for a detailed study of the formation processes is co‐occurrence of find layers with in situ and redeposited material. We use archaeological data and sediment parameters to review and refine a formation model that was based solely on field observations. The archaeological perspective relies upon the rich chipped stone assemblage where each artefact is attributed with 3D position, orientation, stratigraphy, typo‐technological description, and raw material determination. This enabled systematic refitting and 3D analyses of the results. High‐resolution sampling of the sediment sequence which was conducted in six columns at different locations of the excavated area provided comparable results for grain size, colour and carbonate content. The study illustrates the complementary benefits of field observations, archaeological data and sediment parameters. While detailed loess stratigraphy creates the frame for understanding palaeoenvironmental processes, archaeological data enhances visibility of local post‐occupational sedimentary processes. This allows the archaeological sequence to be placed into a cycle of gradual de‐ and restabilisation of the palaeosurface. Burial of the ~31k cal a bp occupation layer occurred by solifluction, slope wash and aeolian deposition between two stable phases marked by tundra gley soils.

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