Details

Autor(en) / Beteiligte

• Pesa, Vladimír

Titel

Vyuzívání jeskyní v mladsí dobe bronzové a halstatské : ve vybranych oblastech strední Evropy

Ist Teil von

• Památky archaeologické, 2006-01, Vol.97, p.47-132

Erscheinungsjahr

2006

Quelle

EZB Free E-Journals

Beschreibungen/Notizen

• This study provides a summary of current knowledge regarding the use of caves in the Late Bronze Age and Hallstatt period, and on the basis of the geomorphology of rock cavities, finds contexts and secondary finds composition attempts to provide a generalized interpretation of such sites. Attention focuses mainly on sites in the Czech Republic and adjacent parts of Germany; the author regards Fränkische Alb in Bavaria as a key site. In considering the location of caves within the framework of the settlement network, there would appear to be a pronounced connection between the existence of hillforts and caves within their areas; caves in these cases were evidently of specific significance. The most striking group comprises cultic caves, which can securely be linked to chasms (Schachthöhlen), narrow fissure caves and sometimes other (dark, damp) sites. Human bone and bronze items are characteristic finds. Similar finds from dark, horizontal or sometimes stalactite caves are by contrast ascribed by the author to burial caves, with an attempt to reconstruct their original form through analogies from outside Central Europe. Fewer finds come from the lighter, more spacious caves and overhangs, which are missing not only human bone but also metal and other items, with the exception of pottery fragments. Despite the usefulness of such spaces for dwelling and production activities, no archaeological situations or finds reflecting such have been identified within them. Also discussed are the changes in the character of the finds situationsarising as a result of the process or archaeologization or from natural events--which could change the overall interpretation of sites. [Publication Abstract]