Geoarchaeology at Langmahdhalde
Current geoarchaeological research at Langmahdhalde, by Lucia Leierer, focuses on studying combustion features from the Magdalenian period using data from excavation as well as a broad spectrum of geoarchaeological techniques including micromorphology, µXRF analysis, and organic petrology. Using these techniques, coupled with field data we analyze microscopic evidence of past fire events that help us reconstruct how these fires were used. These features, which include bones, charcoal, and charred plant material, are key to understanding fire-related human activities and site use. Since fireplaces were central to human life, the study of these combustion features provides valuable insight into how fire was managed and utilized.
The use of advanced techniques allows for a detailed examination of these features, contributing to a broader understanding of human adaptation during the Magdalenian period. This research not only adds to the existing dataset on Magdalenian fire use but also highlights the importance of micromorphology and other microanalytical methods in studying ancient combustion features.
