Dr. Simone Häberle Department of Environmental Sciences Profiles & Affiliations OverviewResearch Publications Publications by Type Projects & Collaborations Academic Activities Academic Self-Administration Junior Development, Doctorate and Advanced Studies Academic Reputation & Networking Teaching Bachelor/Master Projects & Collaborations OverviewResearch Publications Publications by Type Projects & Collaborations Academic Activities Academic Self-Administration Junior Development, Doctorate and Advanced Studies Academic Reputation & Networking Teaching Bachelor/Master Profiles & Affiliations Projects & Collaborations 9 foundShow per page10 10 20 50 Archäozoologische Untersuchungen zu Stein am Rhein SH Research Project | 2 Project MembersBei Ausgrabungen in Stein am Rhein SH, Obergass 11 und Stein am Rhein SH, Oberstadt 7/Obergass 11 (60.069) wurden Tierknochen geborgen. Einerseits konnten handaufgelesene Knochen sichergestellt werden, andererseits wurden Sedimentproben für archäobiologische Untersuchungen entnommen. Das archäozoologische Ensemble wird an der IPNA (Integrative Prähistorische und Naturwissenschaftliche Archäologie, Universität Basel) analysiert. Die Knochen stammen aus einer Grube (N572) und Grube (N70) aus dem Hinterhofareal sowie aus einer Latrine (N40) im Vorderhaus der untersuchten Parzelle und werden ins 14./15. Jh. datiert. Economic, Social and Environmental History of Europe on the basis of archaeozoological data Research Project | 8 Project MembersAnimal bones from archaeological sites from Central Europe and the mediterranean region are used as an archive for the reconstruction of history of environment, nutrition, economy, craft and trade as well as human social and religious systems. For Central Europe (mainly Switzerland) archaeozoological data are available from Neolithic and Bronze Age lake dwellings as well as Bronze Age, iron age, roman, medieval and early modern dryland sites. This archive is also a valuable source for further scientific analysis such as ancient DNA or stable isotopes. Archäobiologische Untersuchungen Selinunt (Sizilien) Research Project | 8 Project MembersUntersuchungen von Tier- und Pflanzenresten Archäozoologische Untersuchungen zu Augusta Raurica Research Project | 7 Project MembersUntersuchung von Gross- und Kleinttierresten Small seeds for large purposes: an integrated approach to agricultural change and climate during the Neolithic in Western Europe Research Project | 6 Project MembersThis project proposes an interdisciplinary approach to agricultural change and its causes during the Neolithic, particularly in connection to climate fluctuations. The study region includes the territories between the Po Valley, the High Rhine and the Ebro Valley. New research will be done in selected sites (unique in each of their regions) with optimal preservation conditions, with an emphasis on wetland sites. Integrated approaches to palaeoecology and palaeoeconomy will be performed combining archaeobotany, archaeozoology and entomology. Large databases will be produced with the available archaeobotanical data, radiocarbon dates and underground storage features in the study region. A radiocarbon dating program will be combined with carbon isotope measurements to eventually approach agricultural change from a multi-proxy perspective and reach a better understanding of agricultural decision-making among early farmers. Archäozoologische Untersuchungen zum Mithräum von Kempraten Research Project | 3 Project MembersUntersuchungen der Gross- und Kleintierreste aus dem Mithräum von Kempraten in Zusammenarbeit mit der Kantonsarchäologie St. Gallen An Interdisciplinary study of the faunal remains from Abri Unterkobel (Oberriet SG) - Reconstruction of the prehistoric economy, faunal changes, environmental history and human impact within a rock-shelter site in Eastern Switzerland Research Project | 6 Project MembersThe project focuses on the analysis of the faunal remains from the rock-shelter site of Abri Unterkobel in Oberriet (SG). The site was excavated as a rescue dig between 2011 and 2012, yielding great quantities of archaeological material spanning from the Early Mesolithic to the Roman period. Due to the large number of faunal remains (large and small vertebrate bones plus molluscs) and their excellent preservation, this interdisciplinary study was conceived in order to take advantage of the enormous scientific potential of this material. The site of Abri Unterkobel is situated within the Alpine Rhine valley in eastern Switzerland. This area lies at the border of different geographic areas and forms a passage to important transalpine passes. The rich archaeological record of this area has only been partially studied and published, with the environmental history and archaeozoological record being particularly neglected. The study of the faunal remains from Abri Unterkobel will make it possible to fill an important research gap in the prehistoric archaeology of Switzerland. The aims of this research project are the reconstruction of the environmental history of the area around the rock-shelter together with the record of human-environment interactions throughout the prehistoric period. Furthermore, a detailed insight can be gained into the exploitation of animal resources within the prehistoric subsistence economy and the activities carried out within the site, as well as the function of the site within prehistoric economic networks. In addition to the archaeozoological research, the study of Abri Unterkobel will include the disciplines of archaeology, archaeobotany, archaeomalacology and geoarchaeology. This broad interdisciplinary approach will enable the site to serve as an important reference for further archaeozoological and environmental research. The basis of this study is formed by the significant assemblage of large mammal bones (totalling more than 18,000 fragments), as well as a number of sieved sediment samples that have yielded high frequencies of small vertebrate remains and molluscs. During the first phase of the project these three categories of faunal remains will be identified and quantified by specialists following approved analytical methods. The second phase will see all the results being analysed and discussed by the project participants and compared with published data from other sites. During the third phase, all the data will be synthesised using an interdisciplinary approach and integrated with the results from the archaeological, archaeobotanical and geoarchaeological studies. This study is closely linked to a second research project concerning the stratigraphy, geoarchaeology, archaeology and archaeobotany of the site, which is being funded by the Canton of St. Gallen Lottery Fund. A close cooperation and exchange of results is scheduled for all phases of the project, and an interdisciplinary monograph about this important archaeological site will be published in 2018. The project focuses on the faunal remains from the rock-shelter site of Abri Unterkobel in Oberriet (SG). The site was excavated as a rescue dig between 2011 and 2012, yielding great quantities of archaeological material spanning from the Early Mesolithic to the Roman period. Due to the large number of faunal remains (large and small vertebrate bones plus molluscs) and their excellent preservation, this interdisciplinary study was conceived in order to take advantage of the enormous scientific potential of this material.The site of Abri Unterkobel is situated within the Alpine Rhine valley in eastern Switzerland. This area lies at the border of different geographic areas and forms a passage to important transalpine passes. The rich archaeological record of this area has only been partially studied and published, with the environmental history and archaeozoological record being particularly neglected. The study of the faunal remains from Abri Unterkobel will make it possible to fill an important research gap in the prehistoric archaeology of Switzerland.The aims of this research project are the reconstruction of the environmental history of the area around the rock-shelter together with the record of human-environment interactions throughout the prehistoric period. Furthermore, a detailed insight can be gained into the exploitation of animal resources within the prehistoric subsistence economy and the activities carried out within the site, as well as the function of the site within prehistoric economic networks. In addition to the archaeozoological research, the study of Abri Unterkobel will include the disciplines of archaeology, archaeobotany, archaeomalacology and geoarchaeology. The basis of this study is formed by the significant assemblage of large mammal bones (> 18,000 fragments), as well as a number of sieved sediment samples that have yielded high frequencies of small vertebrate remains and molluscs. Nahrungsressource Fliessgewässer - Umgang mit aquatischen Ökosystemen im Mittelalter. Untersuchungen von Fischresten aus ausgewählten Grabungen in der Schweiz Research Project | 2 Project MembersThe main focus of this project is on the interdisciplinary investigation and evaluation of archeological fish remains and the analysis of the changes in aquatic ecosystems in medieval times. The project aims at receiving information about the anthropogenic influence on selected riverine systems and its effects on fish stocks, fishery and population supply. With further investigations it will be evaluated how the knowledge of medieval riverine systems could support future water protection projects, like the Water Framework Directive (WFD) of the European Union. Already in the Middle ages numerous watermills were constructed that hampered fish migration and since the end of the 19 th century human interventions and even the destruction of waterways are clearly visible in all of Europe. They have grave, occasionally dire consequences with regard to groundwater levels and flood protection, not to speak of environmental protection, fisheries and local recreational areas. This situation is gradually being acknowledged by politicians and the general public. Solving research problems concerning environmental changes it requires a study of the palaeoecological archives based on collaboration between several scientific disciplines. As a consequence, the upcoming project is characterized by the utilization of classical and new archeozoological methodes as well as biochemical analyses. Certain fish remains are selected for analysis using the ZooMS method (Zooarchaeology by Mass Spectrometry) and stable isotope analysis (carbon, nitrogen and sulphur). While the identification of the fish species gives us insight into the composition of the fish stocks and - in turn - allows us to make statements about the ecological conditions in their habitats, the biochemical methods can provide even more information about the quality of the water and its degree of pollution. Together with historical data there is a chance to get an idea of "natural conditions" of waters for the first time which is needed to build up new standards for water protection. The "pilot study" of the present swiss project is almost done. It comprised classical archaeozoological analyses done by a PhD candidate and has been paid by cantonal services. Also there have been some first test series of stable isotope analysis and of ZooMS method. Those first applications gave some interesting results. It is now needed to continue with the project by including these new biochemical methods and combining further research details to evaluate the results systematically. Tiernutzung im mittelalterlichen St. Ursanne, Kanton Jura Research Project | 2 Project MembersIm Rahmen der Erstellung eines neuen Kanalisationssystems und eines Fernheizungsnetzes fanden in der Altstadt von Saint-Ursanne von 2016 bis 2021 baubegleitende archäologische Ausgrabungen statt. Diese lieferten ein umfangreiches, hauptsächlich mittelalterliches Fundmaterial. Infolge des hohen Grundwasserspiegels und eines sumpfigen Untergrunds sind in Teilen des Stadtgebietes von St. Ursanne im Kanton Jura die Erhaltungsbedingungen für organisches Material wie Knochen, Leder oder Holz ausgezeichnet. Da bisher kein archäozoologisches Material aus Saint-Ursanne zur Verfügung stand, bietet sich nun die einmalige Gelegenheit, erstmals Tierknochen aus dieser mittelalterlichen Kleinstadt zu untersuchen. Die zahlreichen und gut erhaltenen Funde aus dem gesamten Gebiet der kleinen Altstadt von Saint-Ursanne bieten eine einzigartige Voraussetzung zur Untersuchung wirtschaftlicher und sozialer Fragen. Es werden handaufgelesene Grosstierrestes als auch Reste kleinerere Tiere aus Erdproben untersucht. 1 1 OverviewResearch Publications Publications by Type Projects & Collaborations Academic Activities Academic Self-Administration Junior Development, Doctorate and Advanced Studies Academic Reputation & Networking Teaching Bachelor/Master
Projects & Collaborations 9 foundShow per page10 10 20 50 Archäozoologische Untersuchungen zu Stein am Rhein SH Research Project | 2 Project MembersBei Ausgrabungen in Stein am Rhein SH, Obergass 11 und Stein am Rhein SH, Oberstadt 7/Obergass 11 (60.069) wurden Tierknochen geborgen. Einerseits konnten handaufgelesene Knochen sichergestellt werden, andererseits wurden Sedimentproben für archäobiologische Untersuchungen entnommen. Das archäozoologische Ensemble wird an der IPNA (Integrative Prähistorische und Naturwissenschaftliche Archäologie, Universität Basel) analysiert. Die Knochen stammen aus einer Grube (N572) und Grube (N70) aus dem Hinterhofareal sowie aus einer Latrine (N40) im Vorderhaus der untersuchten Parzelle und werden ins 14./15. Jh. datiert. Economic, Social and Environmental History of Europe on the basis of archaeozoological data Research Project | 8 Project MembersAnimal bones from archaeological sites from Central Europe and the mediterranean region are used as an archive for the reconstruction of history of environment, nutrition, economy, craft and trade as well as human social and religious systems. For Central Europe (mainly Switzerland) archaeozoological data are available from Neolithic and Bronze Age lake dwellings as well as Bronze Age, iron age, roman, medieval and early modern dryland sites. This archive is also a valuable source for further scientific analysis such as ancient DNA or stable isotopes. Archäobiologische Untersuchungen Selinunt (Sizilien) Research Project | 8 Project MembersUntersuchungen von Tier- und Pflanzenresten Archäozoologische Untersuchungen zu Augusta Raurica Research Project | 7 Project MembersUntersuchung von Gross- und Kleinttierresten Small seeds for large purposes: an integrated approach to agricultural change and climate during the Neolithic in Western Europe Research Project | 6 Project MembersThis project proposes an interdisciplinary approach to agricultural change and its causes during the Neolithic, particularly in connection to climate fluctuations. The study region includes the territories between the Po Valley, the High Rhine and the Ebro Valley. New research will be done in selected sites (unique in each of their regions) with optimal preservation conditions, with an emphasis on wetland sites. Integrated approaches to palaeoecology and palaeoeconomy will be performed combining archaeobotany, archaeozoology and entomology. Large databases will be produced with the available archaeobotanical data, radiocarbon dates and underground storage features in the study region. A radiocarbon dating program will be combined with carbon isotope measurements to eventually approach agricultural change from a multi-proxy perspective and reach a better understanding of agricultural decision-making among early farmers. Archäozoologische Untersuchungen zum Mithräum von Kempraten Research Project | 3 Project MembersUntersuchungen der Gross- und Kleintierreste aus dem Mithräum von Kempraten in Zusammenarbeit mit der Kantonsarchäologie St. Gallen An Interdisciplinary study of the faunal remains from Abri Unterkobel (Oberriet SG) - Reconstruction of the prehistoric economy, faunal changes, environmental history and human impact within a rock-shelter site in Eastern Switzerland Research Project | 6 Project MembersThe project focuses on the analysis of the faunal remains from the rock-shelter site of Abri Unterkobel in Oberriet (SG). The site was excavated as a rescue dig between 2011 and 2012, yielding great quantities of archaeological material spanning from the Early Mesolithic to the Roman period. Due to the large number of faunal remains (large and small vertebrate bones plus molluscs) and their excellent preservation, this interdisciplinary study was conceived in order to take advantage of the enormous scientific potential of this material. The site of Abri Unterkobel is situated within the Alpine Rhine valley in eastern Switzerland. This area lies at the border of different geographic areas and forms a passage to important transalpine passes. The rich archaeological record of this area has only been partially studied and published, with the environmental history and archaeozoological record being particularly neglected. The study of the faunal remains from Abri Unterkobel will make it possible to fill an important research gap in the prehistoric archaeology of Switzerland. The aims of this research project are the reconstruction of the environmental history of the area around the rock-shelter together with the record of human-environment interactions throughout the prehistoric period. Furthermore, a detailed insight can be gained into the exploitation of animal resources within the prehistoric subsistence economy and the activities carried out within the site, as well as the function of the site within prehistoric economic networks. In addition to the archaeozoological research, the study of Abri Unterkobel will include the disciplines of archaeology, archaeobotany, archaeomalacology and geoarchaeology. This broad interdisciplinary approach will enable the site to serve as an important reference for further archaeozoological and environmental research. The basis of this study is formed by the significant assemblage of large mammal bones (totalling more than 18,000 fragments), as well as a number of sieved sediment samples that have yielded high frequencies of small vertebrate remains and molluscs. During the first phase of the project these three categories of faunal remains will be identified and quantified by specialists following approved analytical methods. The second phase will see all the results being analysed and discussed by the project participants and compared with published data from other sites. During the third phase, all the data will be synthesised using an interdisciplinary approach and integrated with the results from the archaeological, archaeobotanical and geoarchaeological studies. This study is closely linked to a second research project concerning the stratigraphy, geoarchaeology, archaeology and archaeobotany of the site, which is being funded by the Canton of St. Gallen Lottery Fund. A close cooperation and exchange of results is scheduled for all phases of the project, and an interdisciplinary monograph about this important archaeological site will be published in 2018. The project focuses on the faunal remains from the rock-shelter site of Abri Unterkobel in Oberriet (SG). The site was excavated as a rescue dig between 2011 and 2012, yielding great quantities of archaeological material spanning from the Early Mesolithic to the Roman period. Due to the large number of faunal remains (large and small vertebrate bones plus molluscs) and their excellent preservation, this interdisciplinary study was conceived in order to take advantage of the enormous scientific potential of this material.The site of Abri Unterkobel is situated within the Alpine Rhine valley in eastern Switzerland. This area lies at the border of different geographic areas and forms a passage to important transalpine passes. The rich archaeological record of this area has only been partially studied and published, with the environmental history and archaeozoological record being particularly neglected. The study of the faunal remains from Abri Unterkobel will make it possible to fill an important research gap in the prehistoric archaeology of Switzerland.The aims of this research project are the reconstruction of the environmental history of the area around the rock-shelter together with the record of human-environment interactions throughout the prehistoric period. Furthermore, a detailed insight can be gained into the exploitation of animal resources within the prehistoric subsistence economy and the activities carried out within the site, as well as the function of the site within prehistoric economic networks. In addition to the archaeozoological research, the study of Abri Unterkobel will include the disciplines of archaeology, archaeobotany, archaeomalacology and geoarchaeology. The basis of this study is formed by the significant assemblage of large mammal bones (> 18,000 fragments), as well as a number of sieved sediment samples that have yielded high frequencies of small vertebrate remains and molluscs. Nahrungsressource Fliessgewässer - Umgang mit aquatischen Ökosystemen im Mittelalter. Untersuchungen von Fischresten aus ausgewählten Grabungen in der Schweiz Research Project | 2 Project MembersThe main focus of this project is on the interdisciplinary investigation and evaluation of archeological fish remains and the analysis of the changes in aquatic ecosystems in medieval times. The project aims at receiving information about the anthropogenic influence on selected riverine systems and its effects on fish stocks, fishery and population supply. With further investigations it will be evaluated how the knowledge of medieval riverine systems could support future water protection projects, like the Water Framework Directive (WFD) of the European Union. Already in the Middle ages numerous watermills were constructed that hampered fish migration and since the end of the 19 th century human interventions and even the destruction of waterways are clearly visible in all of Europe. They have grave, occasionally dire consequences with regard to groundwater levels and flood protection, not to speak of environmental protection, fisheries and local recreational areas. This situation is gradually being acknowledged by politicians and the general public. Solving research problems concerning environmental changes it requires a study of the palaeoecological archives based on collaboration between several scientific disciplines. As a consequence, the upcoming project is characterized by the utilization of classical and new archeozoological methodes as well as biochemical analyses. Certain fish remains are selected for analysis using the ZooMS method (Zooarchaeology by Mass Spectrometry) and stable isotope analysis (carbon, nitrogen and sulphur). While the identification of the fish species gives us insight into the composition of the fish stocks and - in turn - allows us to make statements about the ecological conditions in their habitats, the biochemical methods can provide even more information about the quality of the water and its degree of pollution. Together with historical data there is a chance to get an idea of "natural conditions" of waters for the first time which is needed to build up new standards for water protection. The "pilot study" of the present swiss project is almost done. It comprised classical archaeozoological analyses done by a PhD candidate and has been paid by cantonal services. Also there have been some first test series of stable isotope analysis and of ZooMS method. Those first applications gave some interesting results. It is now needed to continue with the project by including these new biochemical methods and combining further research details to evaluate the results systematically. Tiernutzung im mittelalterlichen St. Ursanne, Kanton Jura Research Project | 2 Project MembersIm Rahmen der Erstellung eines neuen Kanalisationssystems und eines Fernheizungsnetzes fanden in der Altstadt von Saint-Ursanne von 2016 bis 2021 baubegleitende archäologische Ausgrabungen statt. Diese lieferten ein umfangreiches, hauptsächlich mittelalterliches Fundmaterial. Infolge des hohen Grundwasserspiegels und eines sumpfigen Untergrunds sind in Teilen des Stadtgebietes von St. Ursanne im Kanton Jura die Erhaltungsbedingungen für organisches Material wie Knochen, Leder oder Holz ausgezeichnet. Da bisher kein archäozoologisches Material aus Saint-Ursanne zur Verfügung stand, bietet sich nun die einmalige Gelegenheit, erstmals Tierknochen aus dieser mittelalterlichen Kleinstadt zu untersuchen. Die zahlreichen und gut erhaltenen Funde aus dem gesamten Gebiet der kleinen Altstadt von Saint-Ursanne bieten eine einzigartige Voraussetzung zur Untersuchung wirtschaftlicher und sozialer Fragen. Es werden handaufgelesene Grosstierrestes als auch Reste kleinerere Tiere aus Erdproben untersucht. 1 1
Archäozoologische Untersuchungen zu Stein am Rhein SH Research Project | 2 Project MembersBei Ausgrabungen in Stein am Rhein SH, Obergass 11 und Stein am Rhein SH, Oberstadt 7/Obergass 11 (60.069) wurden Tierknochen geborgen. Einerseits konnten handaufgelesene Knochen sichergestellt werden, andererseits wurden Sedimentproben für archäobiologische Untersuchungen entnommen. Das archäozoologische Ensemble wird an der IPNA (Integrative Prähistorische und Naturwissenschaftliche Archäologie, Universität Basel) analysiert. Die Knochen stammen aus einer Grube (N572) und Grube (N70) aus dem Hinterhofareal sowie aus einer Latrine (N40) im Vorderhaus der untersuchten Parzelle und werden ins 14./15. Jh. datiert.
Economic, Social and Environmental History of Europe on the basis of archaeozoological data Research Project | 8 Project MembersAnimal bones from archaeological sites from Central Europe and the mediterranean region are used as an archive for the reconstruction of history of environment, nutrition, economy, craft and trade as well as human social and religious systems. For Central Europe (mainly Switzerland) archaeozoological data are available from Neolithic and Bronze Age lake dwellings as well as Bronze Age, iron age, roman, medieval and early modern dryland sites. This archive is also a valuable source for further scientific analysis such as ancient DNA or stable isotopes.
Archäobiologische Untersuchungen Selinunt (Sizilien) Research Project | 8 Project MembersUntersuchungen von Tier- und Pflanzenresten
Archäozoologische Untersuchungen zu Augusta Raurica Research Project | 7 Project MembersUntersuchung von Gross- und Kleinttierresten
Small seeds for large purposes: an integrated approach to agricultural change and climate during the Neolithic in Western Europe Research Project | 6 Project MembersThis project proposes an interdisciplinary approach to agricultural change and its causes during the Neolithic, particularly in connection to climate fluctuations. The study region includes the territories between the Po Valley, the High Rhine and the Ebro Valley. New research will be done in selected sites (unique in each of their regions) with optimal preservation conditions, with an emphasis on wetland sites. Integrated approaches to palaeoecology and palaeoeconomy will be performed combining archaeobotany, archaeozoology and entomology. Large databases will be produced with the available archaeobotanical data, radiocarbon dates and underground storage features in the study region. A radiocarbon dating program will be combined with carbon isotope measurements to eventually approach agricultural change from a multi-proxy perspective and reach a better understanding of agricultural decision-making among early farmers.
Archäozoologische Untersuchungen zum Mithräum von Kempraten Research Project | 3 Project MembersUntersuchungen der Gross- und Kleintierreste aus dem Mithräum von Kempraten in Zusammenarbeit mit der Kantonsarchäologie St. Gallen
An Interdisciplinary study of the faunal remains from Abri Unterkobel (Oberriet SG) - Reconstruction of the prehistoric economy, faunal changes, environmental history and human impact within a rock-shelter site in Eastern Switzerland Research Project | 6 Project MembersThe project focuses on the analysis of the faunal remains from the rock-shelter site of Abri Unterkobel in Oberriet (SG). The site was excavated as a rescue dig between 2011 and 2012, yielding great quantities of archaeological material spanning from the Early Mesolithic to the Roman period. Due to the large number of faunal remains (large and small vertebrate bones plus molluscs) and their excellent preservation, this interdisciplinary study was conceived in order to take advantage of the enormous scientific potential of this material. The site of Abri Unterkobel is situated within the Alpine Rhine valley in eastern Switzerland. This area lies at the border of different geographic areas and forms a passage to important transalpine passes. The rich archaeological record of this area has only been partially studied and published, with the environmental history and archaeozoological record being particularly neglected. The study of the faunal remains from Abri Unterkobel will make it possible to fill an important research gap in the prehistoric archaeology of Switzerland. The aims of this research project are the reconstruction of the environmental history of the area around the rock-shelter together with the record of human-environment interactions throughout the prehistoric period. Furthermore, a detailed insight can be gained into the exploitation of animal resources within the prehistoric subsistence economy and the activities carried out within the site, as well as the function of the site within prehistoric economic networks. In addition to the archaeozoological research, the study of Abri Unterkobel will include the disciplines of archaeology, archaeobotany, archaeomalacology and geoarchaeology. This broad interdisciplinary approach will enable the site to serve as an important reference for further archaeozoological and environmental research. The basis of this study is formed by the significant assemblage of large mammal bones (totalling more than 18,000 fragments), as well as a number of sieved sediment samples that have yielded high frequencies of small vertebrate remains and molluscs. During the first phase of the project these three categories of faunal remains will be identified and quantified by specialists following approved analytical methods. The second phase will see all the results being analysed and discussed by the project participants and compared with published data from other sites. During the third phase, all the data will be synthesised using an interdisciplinary approach and integrated with the results from the archaeological, archaeobotanical and geoarchaeological studies. This study is closely linked to a second research project concerning the stratigraphy, geoarchaeology, archaeology and archaeobotany of the site, which is being funded by the Canton of St. Gallen Lottery Fund. A close cooperation and exchange of results is scheduled for all phases of the project, and an interdisciplinary monograph about this important archaeological site will be published in 2018. The project focuses on the faunal remains from the rock-shelter site of Abri Unterkobel in Oberriet (SG). The site was excavated as a rescue dig between 2011 and 2012, yielding great quantities of archaeological material spanning from the Early Mesolithic to the Roman period. Due to the large number of faunal remains (large and small vertebrate bones plus molluscs) and their excellent preservation, this interdisciplinary study was conceived in order to take advantage of the enormous scientific potential of this material.The site of Abri Unterkobel is situated within the Alpine Rhine valley in eastern Switzerland. This area lies at the border of different geographic areas and forms a passage to important transalpine passes. The rich archaeological record of this area has only been partially studied and published, with the environmental history and archaeozoological record being particularly neglected. The study of the faunal remains from Abri Unterkobel will make it possible to fill an important research gap in the prehistoric archaeology of Switzerland.The aims of this research project are the reconstruction of the environmental history of the area around the rock-shelter together with the record of human-environment interactions throughout the prehistoric period. Furthermore, a detailed insight can be gained into the exploitation of animal resources within the prehistoric subsistence economy and the activities carried out within the site, as well as the function of the site within prehistoric economic networks. In addition to the archaeozoological research, the study of Abri Unterkobel will include the disciplines of archaeology, archaeobotany, archaeomalacology and geoarchaeology. The basis of this study is formed by the significant assemblage of large mammal bones (> 18,000 fragments), as well as a number of sieved sediment samples that have yielded high frequencies of small vertebrate remains and molluscs.
Nahrungsressource Fliessgewässer - Umgang mit aquatischen Ökosystemen im Mittelalter. Untersuchungen von Fischresten aus ausgewählten Grabungen in der Schweiz Research Project | 2 Project MembersThe main focus of this project is on the interdisciplinary investigation and evaluation of archeological fish remains and the analysis of the changes in aquatic ecosystems in medieval times. The project aims at receiving information about the anthropogenic influence on selected riverine systems and its effects on fish stocks, fishery and population supply. With further investigations it will be evaluated how the knowledge of medieval riverine systems could support future water protection projects, like the Water Framework Directive (WFD) of the European Union. Already in the Middle ages numerous watermills were constructed that hampered fish migration and since the end of the 19 th century human interventions and even the destruction of waterways are clearly visible in all of Europe. They have grave, occasionally dire consequences with regard to groundwater levels and flood protection, not to speak of environmental protection, fisheries and local recreational areas. This situation is gradually being acknowledged by politicians and the general public. Solving research problems concerning environmental changes it requires a study of the palaeoecological archives based on collaboration between several scientific disciplines. As a consequence, the upcoming project is characterized by the utilization of classical and new archeozoological methodes as well as biochemical analyses. Certain fish remains are selected for analysis using the ZooMS method (Zooarchaeology by Mass Spectrometry) and stable isotope analysis (carbon, nitrogen and sulphur). While the identification of the fish species gives us insight into the composition of the fish stocks and - in turn - allows us to make statements about the ecological conditions in their habitats, the biochemical methods can provide even more information about the quality of the water and its degree of pollution. Together with historical data there is a chance to get an idea of "natural conditions" of waters for the first time which is needed to build up new standards for water protection. The "pilot study" of the present swiss project is almost done. It comprised classical archaeozoological analyses done by a PhD candidate and has been paid by cantonal services. Also there have been some first test series of stable isotope analysis and of ZooMS method. Those first applications gave some interesting results. It is now needed to continue with the project by including these new biochemical methods and combining further research details to evaluate the results systematically.
Tiernutzung im mittelalterlichen St. Ursanne, Kanton Jura Research Project | 2 Project MembersIm Rahmen der Erstellung eines neuen Kanalisationssystems und eines Fernheizungsnetzes fanden in der Altstadt von Saint-Ursanne von 2016 bis 2021 baubegleitende archäologische Ausgrabungen statt. Diese lieferten ein umfangreiches, hauptsächlich mittelalterliches Fundmaterial. Infolge des hohen Grundwasserspiegels und eines sumpfigen Untergrunds sind in Teilen des Stadtgebietes von St. Ursanne im Kanton Jura die Erhaltungsbedingungen für organisches Material wie Knochen, Leder oder Holz ausgezeichnet. Da bisher kein archäozoologisches Material aus Saint-Ursanne zur Verfügung stand, bietet sich nun die einmalige Gelegenheit, erstmals Tierknochen aus dieser mittelalterlichen Kleinstadt zu untersuchen. Die zahlreichen und gut erhaltenen Funde aus dem gesamten Gebiet der kleinen Altstadt von Saint-Ursanne bieten eine einzigartige Voraussetzung zur Untersuchung wirtschaftlicher und sozialer Fragen. Es werden handaufgelesene Grosstierrestes als auch Reste kleinerere Tiere aus Erdproben untersucht.
