The bridge of Dieulouard (Meurthe-et-Moselle, France): a fresh perspective on metal supply strategies in Carolingian economy
Alexandre Disser|Philippe Dillmann|Marc Leroy|Paul Merluzzo|Stéphanie Leroy
A rescue excavation has unearthed the remains of a bridge crossing Moselle River at Dieulouard (Meurthe-et-Moselle, France). This constitutes one rare examples non-religious monumental architecture from Carolingian period in France. The present archaeometrical study, conducted on set architectural iron fastenings, provides an opportunity to examine modalities through which early medieval building yards acquired ferrous materials. Located within vicinity active ironmaking zones, hypothesis was subsequently put forward that supply provided by local market. results nevertheless highlight more complex acquisition strategy than expected, relying least partially metal salvaging. study therefore stimulates current discussions importance recycling economy, and value attributed material its transformation.
Archéosciences