Sea level changes and past vegetation in the Punic period (5th-4th century BC): Archaeological, geomorphological and palaeobotanical indicators (South Sardinia - West Mediterranean Sea)

摘要

The ancient shorelines and main differences in the vegetational landscape of S Sardinia during the Punic period (5th-4th century BC) have been recognized by an interdisciplinary archaeological, paleobotanical and geomorphological approach. Sixteen trading amphoras and one olla of Punic manufacture brought to light during underwater exploration in Santa Gilla Lagoon (S Sardinia, W Mediterranean) provide data on relative sea level changes. The infilling mud of each retrieved amphora is representative of the ages lasting for about 200-300 years. The macro-archaebotanical contents document the use of seeds and fruits of Vitis, Sorbus, Ficus, Olea and Prunus during Punic trading and suggest the occurrence of agro-pastoral practices in the surrounding plains or the area behind the lagoon system.