Land use in the Early Middle Ages? An archaeo-pedological prospection in the Central Black Forest

Abstract

Pedological research and pollen analysis can give important information for the development of low mountain ranges. In the Middle Black Forest colluvia could be found at the foot of a so far undated hillfort. The associated 14C datings prove a land use with deforestation and erosion probably beginning in the 9th/10th century. This clearly demonstrates developing activities which took place significantly before the first monasteries, castles and villages were established. Evidence from written sources supports the idea of clearing and settlement prior to the official colonization.