The best of both worlds: Human impact and plant subsistence at the Middle and Late Neolithic semi-agricultural site of Hekelingen III (2900-2500Â BC)

Despite indications of long-lasting occupation and a large variety of activities at Hekelingen III, the evidence of the consumption of agricultural products rather than their production and of the collection of a wide range of fruits fits very well with further indications of hunting, fishing and fowling and the absence of heavy, permanent structures. Moreover, the site can be seen as being part of a settlement system in which also other Vlaardingen sites played a role, such as the nearby site of Hellevoetsluis, where permanent occupation was verified and crops were locally cultivated.