Seasonality and function of Mesolithic valley-bottom sites: Results from Galgenbühel/Dos de la Forca, Adige valley (South Tyrol, Italian Alps)

The reasons for a marked spring-summer occupation of the site, best documented by the fish sample, partly the result of targeted catches, are most likely related to the predominant wetland economy. Seen in a regional perspective, the results break up with the dichotomy of “winter-valley bottom” and “summer-mountain territories” used to explain the relationship between low- and highland sites. A first comparative analysis between neighboring valley bottom rock-shelters based on macrofaunal ecology and economy as well as shelter exposition, suggests a higher variability in site function, and maybe also occupation season, as prospected so far.