THE LAST HUNTER-GATHERER COMMUNITIES FROM MIDDLE NAREW RIVER VALLEY - ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT. CASE STUDY FROM GRĄDY-WONIECKO SITE (NE POLAND - WIZNA BASIN)

Abstract

Study area is located in NE Poland in the Wizna Basin, the most southern part of Biebrza Basin, which is in origin erosion or melt-out depression with wide bottom. Relief of this region formed during Middle Polish (Saalian) Warta stage) and Vistulian Glaciations. The Grądy-Woniecko archaeological site is situated on elevation (erosion remnant) on the border of fluvial and non-fluvial segments of the basin near Narew River. The research of archeological site (on site study) and surroundings (off site study) was done. Two generations of Late Glacial large meanders of Narew river were discovered and some phases of aeolian processes activity climatically (Older and Younger Dryas) and anthropogenically (Subboreal 4000-1600 BC; Subatlantic – 1200-1600 AD and after 1800 AD) conditioned. Dune complex at Grądy-Woniecko was undercut by Narew river during the Atlantic-Subboreal. It was a place of outstanding significance at the end of Stone Age for the people of Neman culture circle. The settlement activity in this area probably involved regular re-occupations by the same societies. The sandy island near the confluence of the Narew and Biebrza Rivers might have meant something more to the last hunter-gatherers, which is implied by the remains associated with indications of ritual practices, such as burials, dispersed remains of cremated bones, deposits of flint artefacts, or residues of psychoactive substances identified on the walls of pottery vessels.