Les habitats des groupes a Federmesser (aziliens) dans le Nord de la Belgique

摘要

Based on systematic research at Meer, Rekem, and Lommel, this article presents some characteristics o/Federmesser (Azilian) settlements in northern Belgium. Examining land-use patterns, internal spatial organisation on sites and in dwelling structures, we try to shed some light on the economic, social and (spiritual life of these societies. During the Aller0d in-terstadial, the Federmesser groups exploited the Belgian Campine region rather intensively. AU the sites are situated on late glacial sand dunes, systematically overlooking humid depressions along the south-eastern edge. These locations were rich biotopes, probably offering wide floral andfau-nal diversity. Artefact quantities and site size reflect repeated visits, probably induced by recurring patterns of mobility. On the other hand, the Federmesser groups established extended and visibly organised residential camps. So far, only one dwelling structure has been identified. The central area of the settlement consists of a large open air work space around a hearth, where the abundance anil variety of materials reflect a diversity of activities. Some of these generated repetitive patterns of spatial organisation that can still be recognised in the archaeological record. Others, in particular preparation for hunting, occurred away from these centres, perhaps in a ritual context. The results show that, in spite of lacking organic remains, these sites can still yield information on the size and nature of the settlements, as well as on certain aspects of human behaviour. It is argued that in northern Belgium, Federmesser group traditions foreshadowed a Meso-lithic lifestyle, rather than representing a continuation of the Palaeolithic cultures (Magdalenian).