Magdalenian settlement on the edge of the loess island: A case study from the northern foreland of the Carpathians (SE Poland)

Abstract The subject of interdisciplinary studies was the Magdalenian archaeological site and its vicinity situated in the SE part of Kolbuszowa Plateau (Sandomierz Basin, SE Poland). The results of geoarchaeological analysis were not limited only to the area of archaeological excavations, but also include a wider background. From palaeogeographical point of view very important was the geomorphical location of the camp on the periphery of unique loess island close to valley of San River (tributary of Vistula). Analyzed soil profiles – with cultural layer very attractive for archaeologists – represent facies of sandy-silty deposits mainly formed by deluvial and aeolian processes active in the margin of a quite large, morphologically diversified loess island. The lower part of the studied sediments was deposited simultaneously with the youngest loesses, which were accumulated in the close proximity. The deposition of sandy-silty deposits continued during Late Glacial and ended in Younger Dryas when in the adjacent loess zone there were formed stratified silty deposits of deluvial-aeolian origin. This spatial variability of deposits, which were accumulated in a small area, resulted undoubtedly from local conditions and favoured the development of different plant communities at the time when the camp was functioning. Geological research carried out in the Kolbuszowa Plateau provided an answer to the question about the time and conditions of the stay of Magdalenian hunters. This stay coincided with the period of stopped activity of aeolian-slope processes and stabilization of ground surface by grass vegetation when the big meandering river functioned in the deepened valley. Place for the camp was undoubtedly selected on account of its geomorphological qualities – location on the slope sheltered from westerly winds and with extensive view over the surrounding area, at the confluence of two rivers. According to presented data, small groups of Magdalenian hunters appeared on the loess island and in its immediate surroundings in the Allerod. Advantages of this area were as follows: geographical situation near the main migration route, the proximity to the junction of ecological corridors, diversified relief with good observation points and safe places for camp location, access to water and diverse vegetation cover with forests as well as grass areas attracting the game. Finally, despite the peripheral nature of settlement and generally poor traces of stay of the Magdalenian groups in SE Poland, both the features of lithic inventories and settlement strategies fit perfectly with the picture of the Magdalenian complex in Central Europe.