Buried Refuse?

Interpreting Early Neolithic Pits

Abstract

Among archaeologists in Scania it has long been recognized that the Early Neolithic in the region is largely reflected in the archaeological record through the presence of pits. The pits occur in various environments and they often contain large amounts of artefacts. As yet there have been few systematic investigations of the possible functions of the pits. These facts were the point of departure for the present investigation which deals with the analysis and interpretation of the content and morphology of thirteen Early Neolithic pits from various sites in south-west Scania. A common trait among the pits is their large content of artefacts, particularly pottery and flint. The pits are interpreted as functionally different. The emphasis is set on the in-filling, which is interpreted as refuse. A dualistic relation to the refuse is further discussed with the main focus on profane behaviour and sacral ideas.