The Steinweidband in Muotathal (Ct. Schwyz / CH): A Mesolithic Hunting Camp in a Subalpine Settlement Landscape

Abstract

The Steinweidband in Muotathal (Ct. Schwyz / CH): A Mesolithic Hunting Camp in a Subalpine Settlement Landscape
Archaeological surveys and excavations from 2005 to 2023 in the municipality of Muotathal have so far revealed nine Mesolithic sites with radiocarbon-dated charcoal and faunal remains, as well as typologically identifiable silices. The differing topographical situations of the sites and find assemblages make it possible to propose a modelled reconstruction of land usage by Mesolithic hunter-gatherer groups in the mountainous Alpine study area. Base camps, campsites at passages obligés and hunting observation posts visited in summer or autumn can be identified. In winter, groups of people probably remained on the Swiss Plateau. Determination of siliceous raw materials provides evidence of contacts and exchange systems involving the Central Plateau, the Jura, the Alpine Rhine Valley and southern Alpine regions. Palaeoethnobotanical, osteological, anthracological and malacological investigations additionally provide valuable data regarding the climate, environment and anthropogenic supply strategies.