Living by the shore: Mesolithic dwellings and household in Motala, eastern central Sweden, 5600–5000 cal BC

Abstract

Dwellings symbolize culture, give meaning to everyday activities and provide central places for a range of household activities. This study focuses on hunter-gatherer households at the Late Mesolithic settlement in Motala, and the spatial arrangement of indoor and outdoor activities of two well preserved dwellings, Dwelling 4 and 6, at the site Strandvägen. We present structural elements as well as utilized lithics, firewood selection and choices in diet and food consumption. By studying methods of fishing and remains of fish processing we conclude that the inhabitants must have had ways of storage at the site. Through a combination of archaeobothanical studies and chemical analyzes we also confirm the exploitation of starch rich rhizomes and root tubers as part of the diet at the settlement. Post-built constructions, indoor hearths and estimated floor areas suggest the use of the dwellings as winter residences and probably utilized by multiple family units.