Publications
Assessment of the Archaeological Potential of Prehistoric Settlement Areas along the Lake Shores and Wetlands of Carinthia, Southern Austria
A pilot project in Carinthia, southern Austria, has uncovered new evidence of prehistoric settlement dynamics along lake shores and wetlands, bridging gaps in the region's archaeological record. The study, conducted between 2021 and 2024, combined archival research, underwater surveys, sediment coring, and laboratory analyses to identify and document submerged archaeological structures dating from the 5th to 3rd millennia BC. Notably, the discovery of a pile-dwelling site on Kapuzinerinsel in Lake Wörthersee highlights the potential for targeted assessments to reveal previously unknown heritage. The research provides new radiocarbon dates and insights into human-environment interactions during the Neolithic and Copper Age, reinforcing Carinthia's significance as an inner-Alpine corridor linking Europe's archaeological landscapes. This interdisciplinary approach sets a foundation for future heritage protection and regional studies.
Found in Sursee-Zellmoos (Switzerland) but from where did it come?
Recent excavations at Sursee-Zellmoos, part of the UNESCO-listed Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps, have uncovered lithic artefacts that challenge assumptions about Neolithic trade networks. While most silicite tools originate from local sources, two axe blades—one of unknown origin—suggest long-distance exchange or mining contexts. Preliminary analyses hint at a non-local provenance for one blade, though further investigation is needed to confirm its exact source. This discovery sheds light on the complexity of raw material procurement and inter-regional connections during the Neolithic period.
Surfaced—The Digital Pile Dwellings
A digital revolution is unlocking Austria's hidden UNESCO-listed pile dwellings, preserving 7000 years of submerged and bog-buried heritage. The project 'Surfaced—the Digital Pile Dwellings' has digitized 500 high-resolution artefacts from five sites, transforming them into interactive 3D models accessible via the open-access web application PfahlbauKompass. This innovative approach bridges physical inaccessibility with virtual exploration, offering unprecedented access to finds from national museums, regional heritage houses, and private collections. Beyond archiving, it serves as a platform for scientific research, virtual exhibitions, and educational initiatives, significantly enhancing public awareness of these underwater archaeological treasures.
Pile-Dwellings at Ljubljansko Barje, Slovenia: 25 Years of Dendrochronology
Research on prehistoric pile-dwellings in Ljubljansko Barje, Slovenia, has revealed that some of the earliest settlements in the region date back to around 4600 BC. Over a span of 25 years, dendrochronology was employed to analyze nearly 8800 waterlogged wood samples from 16 sites, establishing precise tree-ring chronologies for oak and ash. These chronologies, combined with radiocarbon dating and wiggle-matching techniques, provided accurate timelines for the settlements' existence. Notably, the oak chronology BAR-3330 (3771–3330 BC) helped date eight sites, while others like SG-VO and ZA-QUSP1 marked significant periods, including the end of the Copper Age. The study also demonstrated the potential for teleconnecting Slovenian oak chronologies with those from other regions, offering a broader context for understanding prehistoric human activity in Europe.
Prehistoric Recycling Explained in a Playful Way: The Pfahlbauten Wimmelbild—An Interactive Digital Mediation Tool Designed by Young People
A playful digital tool, the Pfahlbauten Wimmelbild, reveals prehistoric recycling practices through interactive animations created by young students. This project, part of the FFG Talents Internship program, engaged 14- to 17-year-old students in researching and communicating sustainability concepts related to UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps.' Using scientific literature, museum collections, and historical records, students developed an augmented illustration that brings a prehistoric lake shore settlement to life. The tool, featuring animations and descriptive texts, educates users about artifact recycling processes while introducing young participants to scientific research and communication. This innovative approach was recognized with the Creative App Award at CHNT 2023.
Erste Tauchgrabung im Thunersee (BE) am Tor zu den Alpen
A pioneering underwater excavation at Lake Thun (BE), Switzerland, revealed significant insights into the preservation and condition of prehistoric pile dwellings submerged beneath its waters. This first-of-its-kind diving expedition, conducted as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps,' utilized advanced underwater archaeology techniques to assess the structural integrity, organic material preservation, and environmental context of these ancient settlements. The findings contribute critical data to understanding the resilience and adaptability of Neolithic communities in alpine regions, while also informing conservation strategies for submerged heritage sites.
Protection of the world heritage against archaeological research : the case of the Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps registered at UNESCO
The Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011, face a critical challenge: balancing their protection with the need for archaeological research. This study identifies the tension between preserving the integrity of these fragile sites and conducting necessary excavations to advance knowledge about Neolithic and Bronze Age cultures. It proposes a new management model that reconciles these conflicting interests by ensuring conservation while allowing controlled research. The approach involves synthesizing existing knowledge, promoting cross-border collaboration among six countries, and addressing threats from natural phenomena and human activities. By doing so, it aims to safeguard this outstanding heritage for future generations while fostering scientific inquiry.
UNESCO World Heritage „Prehistoric pile-dwellings around the Alps“: Chances and Challenges for Management and Research of Cultural Heritage Under Water
The UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Prehistoric pile-dwellings around the Alps' presents a unique opportunity for long-term cultural heritage preservation, particularly for organic materials like wood and plant fibers that survive exceptionally well in waterlogged environments. These sites offer high scientific potential due to their precise dating capabilities through dendrochronology, enabling researchers to study artifacts spanning hundreds or thousands of years. However, managing public access and maintaining public interest pose significant challenges. The site, recognized in 2011 after an initiative by Switzerland, involves six Alpine countries collaborating to protect this 'invisible' yet invaluable heritage.
Erosion and Archaeological Heritage Protection in Lake Constance and Lake Zurich: The Interreg IV Project ‘Erosion und Denkmalschutz am Bodensee und Zürichsee’
The Interreg IV project 'Erosion and Archaeological Heritage Protection on Lake Constance and Lake Zürich' significantly advanced the preservation of UNESCO-listed prehistoric pile dwellings by refining mapping, surveillance, and erosion protection techniques. The study identified ship-induced waves as a major contributor to anthropogenic-increased erosion, emphasizing the need for targeted measures to mitigate their impact. By integrating archaeological monitoring with lake research, the project enhanced the effectiveness of protective strategies while addressing ecological considerations. These findings provide a foundation for long-term conservation efforts in these culturally significant underwater sites.
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