The Function of Wells in Settlements of Central European Communities in Late Antiquity

An Example of the Przeworsk Culture from Kwiatków (woj. wielkopolskie / PL)

Abstract

The article’s objective is to outline the function of wells in settlement areas of Central European communities in Late Antiquity. The intended use as water collectors is not always as obvious and unambiguous as it might seem. In the past, these facilities fulfilled many functions, quite frequently ones of special importance. The character of the finds obtained from the wells in Kwiatków and other water collectors of the Przeworsk Culture, their constructions and their placement in the area of the settlement indicate that the intended use of these structures varied. Palaeoecological analyses facilitate the further detailing of their functions. In Kwiatków, first and foremost they were sources of drinking water for both private and public use and animals as well. They were also facilities related to the pretreatment of flax. Probably food was stored in some of them, too. They could also be used to soak antler before processing it. Certain categories of finds also suggest their cult function.