Environmental evidence from early urban Antwerp: New data from archaeology, micromorphology, macrofauna and insect remains
Pam Crabtree|Eileen Reilly|Barbora Wouters|Yannick Devos|Tim Bellens|Anne Schryvers
Recent excavations along the Jordaenskaai, in medieval burg area central Antwerp, have provided a unique opportunity to explore archaeology, economy, and environmental context of early Antwerp. This multidisciplinary project examined structures features that are radiocarbon dated 760–970 CE order gain better understanding use human resources space at dawn this trade town. By combining micromorphology analyses both insect vertebrate fauna, we local environment Antwerp its connections wider hinterland surrounding Excavations revealed remarkably well preserved wooden trackways, houses, fences, numerous finds, often related artisanal activities, including bone, antler metal working. Around 900 CE, D-shaped earthen rampart was erected; it subsequently fortified by stone wall. The is considered nucleus catalyst for urban development. Like many contemporary sites, macrofaunal remains dominated bones domestic cattle pigs. However, presence sizable numbers wild mammals, red deer, boar, beaver, distinguishes sites from other such as Ipswich. A number house were excavated within area. micromorphological analysis micro-laminated layers one these performed, revealing evolution single location. On top oldest ash deposit, thick stabling horizon containing leaves, grass, wood fragments animal dung identified. confirmed deposit primarily comprised or stable manure, with stored hay plant matter also indicated. high percentage natural woodland indicators noted, suggesting timber wattle buildings trackways sourced woodlands close proximity virtually aspect faunas towns north west Europe, closest parallels coming Novgorod, Russia. upper part sequence shows floors more space. combined archaeological, macrofaunal, study suggests already had thriving market quarter 10th century, animals stabled town butchery export, being brought processing craft
Quaternary International