Roasting Pits as Social Space: The Organisation of Outdoor Activities on an Early Mesolithic Settlement Site in Northern Sweden

Abstract

The interior of northern Sweden was thc last area in Europe to become icefree and pioneer settlers arrived soon aftcr deglaciation. Early Mesolithic settlement sites in the Arjeplog area, Sweden, provide evidence of rapid colonization. This paper highlights the significance of the overall site arena as an interpretative unit for analyses of social life among the pioneer settlers in interior Northern Sweden. Results from the excavation of the Dumpokjauratj site dating to c. 8,600 BP (9,600 cal BP) are presented. The distinct spatial outline implies conformity in cultural codes during the initial phase of occupation reflecting an underlying principle of duality.