Time Framing Early Medieval Stone Building North of the Alps—A Discussion of Recent Challenging Results
Sophie Hueglin
Abstract Early Medieval stone building began earlier and was more widespread than previously thought. This conclusion is the result of scientific dating that challenges traditional views “petrification” process in architecture north Alps after Roman period. Radiocarbon ( 14 C) not precise enough to answer detailed questions connected historical contexts, but recently there have been a number surprising dates: “Roman” city walls now phases or meter-high, obscure “dark earth” strata were subdivided dated. Results line with clients’ expectations can be subject heated debates, worse, tend remain unpublished. To archaeologist, who trying connect dates events, usually clear, mortar methodology still being developed, while organic material like charcoal from standard procedure. But even latter has downfalls possible “old-wood-effect,” if such complications are carefully considered avoided during sampling process. Drawing on examples Switzerland, Germany, Austria, France, recent challenging results will discussed an archaeologist’s point view.
Radiocarbon