The Island in Żółte on Lake Zarańskie

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The Island in Żółte on Lake Zarańskie. Early Medieval Gateway into West Pomerania. 2. Chronology. 2.4. Dendrochronological dating.

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The Island in Żółte on Lake Zarańskie Early Medieval Gateway into West Pomerania

edited by Wojciech Chudziak and Ryszard Kaźmierczak

Toruń 2014 The Island in Żółte on Lake Zarańskie Early Medieval Gateway into West Pomerania edited by Wojciech Chudziak and Ryszard Kaźmierczak

Reviewer prof. dr hab. Przemysław Urbańczyk

English translation Tomasz Borkowski (Chapters 1, 2, 4, 5, 6.3–6.8, 6.10–6.15, 9–12, Annex 1) Barbara Gostyńska (Chapters 6.1, 6.2, 6.9, 6.16, 7) Wojciech Krzyżanowski (Chapters 3, 8)

Managing editor Paweł Kucypera

Secretaries Ryszard Kaźmierczak Małgorzata Markiewicz

Chief graphic Barbara Kowalewska

Proofreading Team

Cover design Barbara Kowalewska

Cover photos Wiesław Ochotny, Wiesław Stępień

Published according to the project of NCS: Wyspa w Żółtym na przełomie I i II tysiąclecia – centrum społeczno-kulturowe na Pomorzu Zachodnim (No. 2011/01/B/HS3/034014)

This publication was partailly funded from the budget of the West Pomeranian Voivodeship

ISBN 978-83-231-3352-0 ISBN 978-83-64070-32-7

DTP Paweł Kucypera

Printed by Abedik l.l.c., Glinki 84, 85-861 Bydgoszcz, [email protected] Contents

1. Introduction 7 Wojciech Chudziak, Ryszard Kaźmierczak 1.1. Aim and problems 7 1.2.2. The island – site 33 11 1.2. Description of the archaeological sites 10 1.3. History of research 11 1.2.1. The stronghold and adjacent open settlement – 1.4. Range and methods of research 15 sites 1, 1a, and 1b (peninsula) 10 1.5. Source base of the study 16

2. Chronology 17 Wojciech Chudziak, Ryszard Kaźmierczak 2.1. Stratigraphical method 17 2.3. Numismatic sources 21 2.1.1. The first phase (I) 17 2.4. Dendrochronological dating 21 2.1.2. The second phase (II) 18 Wojciech Chudziak, Ryszard Kaźmierczak, Tomasz Ważny 2.2. Typological-comparative method – pottery and 2.5. Radiocarbon dating 24 other artefacts 19 2.6. Summary 25

3. Natural environment 27 3.1. Geomorphological setting 27 3.2.3.2. The hydrology of Lake Zarańskie Jarosław Kordowski and its catchment 43 3.1.1. Location 27 3.2.3.2.1. Morphometric and morphological 3.1.2. Methods 27 parameters of the lake 43 3.1.3. Landforms 27 3.2.3.2.2. Description of Lake Zarańskie 3.1.4. Surface deposits 29 catchment 45 3.1.4.1. Fluvioglacial sands and gravels 29 3.2.3.2.3. Physical and chemical properties of 3.1.4.2. Glacial tills 30 the lake 47 3.1.4.2.1. Supposed glacial suite 30 3.3. Vegetation and settlement history as reflected 3.1.4.2.2. Debrites 30 by pollen analysis 49 3.1.4.3. Kame sands 34 Agnieszka M. Noryśkiewicz 3.1.4.4. Ablational sands 34 3.3.1. Introductory remarks 49 3.1.4.4.1. Fluvioglacial sands and gravels (younger) 34 3.3.2. Materials and methods 49 3.1.4.4.2. Deluvia (colluvial deposits) 36 3.3.3. Vegetation history 51 3.1.4.4.3. Limnic sands and gravels 36 3.3.4. Settlement history in the context of 3.1.4.4.4. Peats and gyttjas 38 palynological indicators – from the 3.1.4.4.5. Anthropogenic deposits 39 Migration Period to the Middle Ages 57 3.1.5. Conclusions 40 3.3.4.1. FRL/JZa-4 285–330 cm 57 3.2. Lake Zarańskie – hydrographic and 3.3.4.2. FO/JZa5 170–285 cm 57 hydrological conditions 40 3.3.4.3. FRL/JZa-5 145–170 cm 58 Katarzyna Kubiak-Wójcicka, Adam Solarczyk 3.3.4.4. FO/JZa-6; 30–145 cm 59 3.2.1. Location 40 3.4. Reconstruction of surface elevation variations 3.2.2. Methods 40 in Lake Zarańskie 60 3.2.3. Results 41 Wojciech Chudziak, Ryszard Kaźmierczak, Jarosław Kordowski, 3.2.3.1. Hydrographic changes revealed by the Katarzyna Kubiak-Wójcicka, Agnieszka M. Noryśkiewicz, Adam Solarczyk study of historical and present-day maps 41 4 Contents

4. Cultural stratigraphy 65 Wojciech Chudziak, Ryszard Kaźmierczak 4.1. The island 65 4.1.2. The underwater environment 82 4.1.1. The terrestrial environment 65 4.2. The stronghold 86 4.1.1.1. Phase I 65 4.3. The settlement (site 1b) 88 4.1.1.2. Phase II 76

5. Layout of the settlement space of the island 91 Wojciech Chudziak, Ryszard Kaźmierczak, Jacek Niegowski 5.1. Spacer construction and the palisade (phase Ia) 91 5.4. The construction of the wharves, platforms,

5.2. The earthen embankment and the cultural layer palisade and the bridge (phase II1–5) 103 (phase Ib–Ic) 96 5.5. Peninsula 108 5.3. Settlement pits under metalling (phase IIa) and 5.5.1. Stronghold 108 metalling with buildings (phase IIb) 99 5.5.2. The open settlement 109

6. Finds: functional categories and analysis 111 6.1. Pottery 111 6.2.3. Spoons 163 Piotr Błędowski, Wojciech Chudziak Wojciech Chudziak, Ryszard Kaźmierczak 6.1.1. Methodology 111 6.2.4. Knives 175 6.1.2. General characteristics of the assemblage 111 Sebastian Kalinowski 6.1.3. Manufacturing technique and vessel 6.2.5. Knife handle fittings 176 forms/types 112 Sebastian Kalinowski 6.1.3.1. Type AB/Sukow vessels 112 6.2.6. Whetstones and polishing stones 178 6.1.3.2. Type C/Feldberg vessels 114 Sebastian Kalinowski 6.1.3.3. Type D/Menkendorf vessels 115 6.2.7. Perforators 185 6.1.3.4. Type E/Woldegk vessels 115 Sebastian Kalinowski 6.1.3.5. Type F/Fresendorf vessels 121 6.2.8. Strike-a-light 185 6.1.3.6. Type G/Vipperow vessels 122 Sebastian Kalinowski 6.1.3.7. Type H/Weisdin vessels 127 6.2.9. Scraper 185 6.1.3.8. Type I/Warder vessels 128 Sebastian Kalinowski 6.1.3.9. Type J/Teterow vessels 129 6.2.10. Household equipment 189 6.1.3.10. Type K vessels 129 Barbara Kowalewska 6.1.3.11. Type M/Bobzin vessels 135 6.3. Construction tools 191 6.1.3.12. Type O–R vessels 137 Ryszard Kaźmierczak 6.1.3.13. Type S vessels 137 6.4. Items associated with spinning and weaving 196 6.1.3.14. Goblets 139 Barbara Kowalewska 6.1.3.15. Luxury pottery 139 6.4.1. Spinning tools 196 6.1.3.16. Potters’ marks 140 6.4.2. Tools and weaving products 212 6.1.4. Synchronisation of pottery assemblages 6.5. Rope-making products and tools 217 and their structure 140 Barbara Kowalewska 6.1.4.1. Phases Ia, b 141 6.6. Leather working 220 6.1.4.2. Phase Ic 141 Ryszard Kaźmierczak 6.1.4.3. Phases I, II 142 6.6.1. Footwear 221 6.1.4.4. Phase II 142 6.6.2. Sheaths 227 6.1.4.5. Phase IIa 143 6.6.3. Others (unidentified waste, patches, 6.1.4.6. Phase IIb 143 and straps) 227 6.2. Household equipment 145 6.7. Agricultural Tools 234 6.2.1. Wooden vessels 145 Sebastian Kalinowski, Ryszard Kaźmierczak Barbara Kowalewska 6.7.1. Sickles and a wooden hoe 234 6.2.1.1. Stave-built vessels 145 6.7.2. Querns and rubber stones 234 6.2.1.2. Turned vessels 151 6.8. Fishing equipment 239 6.2.1.3. Hollowed-out vessels 153 Ryszard Kaźmierczak 6.2.2. Kitchen utensils 160 6.8.1. Tools for the production of fishing Barbara Kowalewska equipment 239 Contents 5

6.8.2. Fishing accessories 239 Wojciech Chudziak 6.9. Weapons and horse tack 243 6.14. Means of exchange and merchant utensils 270 Ryszard Kaźmierczak Wojciech Chudziak 6.9.1. Striking weapons 244 6.14.1. Coins 270 6.9.2. Spears 250 Wojciech Chudziak, Adam Musiałowski 6.9.3. Ranged weapons 251 6.14.2. Balances and weights 273 6.9.4. Horse tack 251 6.14.3. Iron bowl 277 6.10. Sound tools and musical instruments 252 6.14.4. Counting sticks 278 Barbara Kowalewska, Ryszard Kaźmierczak 6.15. Means of transport 279 6.11. Combs 255 Ryszard Kaźmierczak Ewelina Błędowska 6.16. Unidentified artefacts 282 6.12. Jewellery and parts of costume 258 Barbara Kowalewska, Ryszard Kaźmierczak Ryszard Kaźmierczak, Tomasz Hildebrandt 6.16.1. Wooden artefacts 282 6.12.1. Jewellery 258 6.16.2. Metal finds 301 6.12.2. Parts of costume 267 6.16.3. Objects made of flint, stone, amber, antler, 6.13. Items associated with cult and magic 268 and clay 302

7. Faunal remains 311 Daniel Makowiecki, Marzena Makowiecka 7.1. Introduction 311 7.4.3. Age 333 7.2. Spatial and chronological context of recovered 7.4.4. Sex 334 bone assemblages and analysis methodology 311 7.5. Skeletal deposits 338 7.3. The island 313 7.5.1. The island 338 7.3.1. Taxonomic composition 313 7.5.2. Underwater contexts 339 7.3.2. Skeletal composition 315 7.5.2.1. Module A 339 7.3.2.1. Cattle 318 7.5.2.2. Module B 339 7.3.2.2. Pig 320 7.5.2.3. Module C 340 7.3.2.3. Sheep and goat 323 7.5.2.3.1. Skulls 341 7.3.2.4. Horse 324 7.5.2.3.2. Anatomical groups with evidence 7.3.2.5. Dog and cat 324 of human modification 341 7.3.2.6. Wild boar 324 7.5.2.3.3. Anatomical groups with no evidence 7.3.2.7. Red deer and roe deer 327 of human modification 346 7.3.2.8. Other species 327 7.5.2.4. Module D 348 7.3.3. Age 327 7.5.2.5. Module E 350 7.3.4. Sex 330 7.5.2.6. Other areas 351 7.4. Underwater zone 330 7.6. Site 1b 357 7.4.1. Taxonomic composition 330 7.7. Cultural interpretation 357 7.4.2. Skeletal composition 331 7.7.1. Taphonomic and genetic factors of bone 7.4.2.1. Cattle 332 assemblage deposition 358 7.4.2.2. Pig 332 7.7.2. Fauna as a food resource 358 7.4.2.3. Sheep and goat 332 7.7.3. Fauna as an expression of ritual/magic 7.4.2.4. Other species 332 behaviour 362

8. Plant remains 367 Katarzyna Pińska, Małgorzata Latałowa 8.1. Introduction 367 8.3.1.1. General description 372 8.2. Material and methods 368 8.3.1.2. Botanical content of the samples from 8.2.1. Collection of material and laboratory the littoral zone 385 methods 368 8.3.1.2.1. Trench 19/09 385 8.2.2. Methods of results presentation 371 8.3.1.2.2. Trench 10/05 385 8.2.3. Age determination 372 8.3.1.2.3. Trench 13/06 385 8.3. Sub-fossil flora in cultural layers and 8.3.1.2.4. Trench 1a/w/05 385 archaeological features 372 8.3.1.2.5. Trenches 30/w/07 and 37/w/08; 8.3.1. Waterlogged material 372 samples from ceramic vessels 389 6 Contents

8.3.1.2.6. Trench 35/w/08 393 8.3.3. Differentiation of archaeobotanical 8.3.1.2.7. Trench 9/05 393 material according to succeeding phases 8.3.1.3. Differences in spatial distribution of of island occupation 406 some elements of the sub-fossil flora 8.4. Natural environment and plant utilisation 408 along the island’s littoral zone 393 8.4.1. Sub-fossil flora of Żółte 33 site – 8.3.2. Charred material 396 information it provides and potential 8.3.2.1. List of taxa and general characteristics for interpretation 408 of the material 396 8.4.2. Impact of settlement and economy on 8.3.2.2. Botanical content of the samples from natural environment 409 the inland part of the island 401 8.4.2.1. Forest and brushwood communities 409 8.3.2.2.1. Trenches 12/06 and 14/06 401 8.4.2.2. Cultivated land and ruderal habitats 411 8.3.2.2.2. Trench 15/07–08 401 8.4.2.3. Meadows and pastures 413 8.3.2.2.3. Trenches 6c/05 and 10a/05 401 8.4.2.4. Wetland and aquatic vegetation 413 8.3.2.2.4. Trench 8/05 401 8.4.3. Plant use 413 8.3.2.2.5. Trench 10/05 402 8.4.3.1. Cultivated plants 413 8.3.2.2.6. Trench 11/05 403 8.4.3.2. The use of natural resources – gathering 8.3.2.2.7. Trench 16/07 403 and using plants from the wild 416 8.3.2.2.8. Trench 18/08 405 8.4.3.3. Botanical traces of potential rituals 417 8.3.2.3. Excavation units in the peninsula 405 8.5. Summary and conclusions 418

9. Human remains 421 Tomasz Kozłowski 9.1. Introduction 421 9.2.1. Bone (Inv. No. 21/06) 422 9.2. Morphological characterization and 9.2.2. Bone (Inv. No. 5/12) 423 anatomical identification 422 9.3. Interpretation of research results 424

10. Żółte settlement centre against the Pomeranian background 425 Wojciech Chudziak, Ewelina Siemianowska 10.1. Micro- and meso-level settlement structures 425 10.2. Long-distance routes 433

11. Socio-cultural functions of the island in Żółte 441 Wojciech Chudziak, Piotr Pranke, Ryszard Kaźmierczak

Conclusions 451 Wojciech Chudziak, Ryszard Kaźmierczak

Annex 1. Catalogue of cultural layers and features Annex 2. Spectral analysis of non-ferrous metal objects 509 from sites 1, 1b, and 33 455 Paweł Kucypera Ryszard Kaźmierczak, Piotr Błędowski, Annex 3. Archaeological sites in researched area 517 Barbara Kowalewska, Wojciech Chudziak Piotr Błędowski, Ryszard Kaźmierczak, Ewelina Siemianowska

Bibliography 533

Information about the Authors 569 1. Introduction

1.1. Aim and problems

n early medieval settlement complex in Żółte archaeozoology, dendrology, geomorphology, and hy- near Lake Zarańskie in West Pomerania is one drology). Due to the nature of the local environment in Aof the most interesting micro-regions studied which the remains related to human activity are situated, in recent years in this part of the West Slavs’ territory there was a need to apply research methods specific to (Figs. 1.1, 1.2). At its core is a stronghold situated on land archaeology, wetland archaeology, and underwater a peninsula (site 1) and two open settlements directly archaeology. The excavations uncovered a complex system adjacent to it (sites 1a and 1b) as well as the remains of archaeological layers, both land and underwater ones, of a multifunctional centre of public life located on and identified within them were numerous remains of a nearby island (site 33), whose character is difficult to wooden and stone structures from the 9th–11th centuries. determine in terms of traditional archaeological and In these layers were numerous artefacts representing conservation nomenclature as a ‘settlement’ (Figs. 1.3, various categories of early medieval material culture. 1.4). The sites on the peninsula were already known in The subject of this paper is a monographic presentation the second half of the 19th century, while the remains of the discovered materials and an interpretation of the on the island were discovered at the beginning of origins and function of this place, situated on the border- the 21st century. Access to the island for decades was land between Pomerania and Greater Poland. Firstly, the rather limited, due to the artificial raising of the water chronological base of the studied centre will be presented level in the lake that was caused by the construction (Chapter 2). This was developed based on the results of of a post-medieval watermill on the Stara Rega River. the stratigraphical analysis (2.1), typological-comparative The lowering of the water level in the lake took place in the 1950s–1960s. When this happened hundreds of oak posts emerged that had been arranged around the island. They are the remnants of early medieval wharves and platforms (Figs. 1.5, 1.6). A systematic archaeological excavations of this place was undertaken in 2004–2010 and 2012–2013 by the Institute of Archaeology of the Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń. The excavations were conducted under the research programme developed by the authors of this study and implemented in stages within the framework of two research projects of the State Committee for Scientific Research and the Ministry of Science and Higher Education. They were funded by the University in Toruń and co-funded by the Voivodeship Monuments Conservator. The research from the beginning was interdisciplinary and was carried out in close cooperation with Fig. 1.1. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship, Locations of ear- representatives of the natural sciences (archaeobotany, ly medieval settlement complex in Żółte (http://mapaswiata.pl) 8 W. Chudziak, R. Kaźmierczak

Fig. 1.2. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship. Locations of early medieval settlement complex in Żółte (photo by W. Stępień; http://mapaswiata.pl)

site 1 site 1b site 1a

site 33

Fig. 1.3. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship. Early medieval settlement complex (photo by W. Stępień) analysis of pottery (2.2), analysis of numismatic sources surface elevation variations in Lake Zarańskie (3.4). The (2.3) as well as dendrochronological data (2.4), and radi- source and analytical section includes a more detailed ocarbon dating (2.5) will all be detailed in this section. discussion of the stratigraphy of the sites (Chapter 4) Secondly, the basic components of the local environment and structures within the layers (Chapter 5), and also (Chapter 3) will be described, i.e. geomorphology and four basic categories of sources: strictly archaeological geology (3.1), hydrography (3.2), vegetation with refer- ones (Chapter 6), archaeozoological ones (Chapter 7) ence to the issue of the reconstruction of their elements and archaeobotanical ones (Chapter 8), anthropological in the Early Middle Ages (3.3), and reconstruction of ones (Chapter 9). An important part of this study is the 1. Introduction 9

site 1 site 1b site 33

Fig. 1.4. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship. Early medieval settlement complex (photo by R. Kaźmierczak)

Fig. 1.5. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship, site 33. The Fig. 1.6. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship, site 33. The remnants of early medieval wharves and platforms (photo by remnants of early medieval wharves and platforms (photo by R. Kaźmierczak) R. Kaźmierczak) 10 W. Chudziak, R. Kaźmierczak characterization of local and supra-local settlement functions of the settlement complex evolve? Should structures which is an attempt to place the settlement we perceive amongst them sacral functions associated complex in Żółte in context against the background of with a local aquatic hierophany? Are underwater and settlement in West Pomerania (Chapter 10). terrestrial animal bone finds and remains of plants as Based on results of the analyses and on knowledge well as numerous artefacts of different categories related covering historical and ethnological data, an attempt to with it in some way? And finally, what were the reasons interpret the complex cultural issues in this unique place, for the destruction or abandonment of this place? on a Pomeranian scale was undertaken (Chapter 11). It is only a list of basic questions that the authors of The question begins with the problem of its origins, this study attempt to answer. A large number of them, both the beginnings of the use of this place as well as unfortunately, remain without a satisfactory answer. the successive stages of its development. What natural Many problems at the present stage of research must and cultural determinants influenced the rise of the remain ‘open’. A comparative analysis of similar is- centre in question? Can an ideological (symbolic) factor lands from the West Slavs’ territory would indicate associated with the cosmological perception of this place the existence of certain principles in the organiza- be traced amongst them? What impact on its creation tion of borderlands. The results of research in Żółte had macro settlement factors, and especially its location generated the undertaking of a systematic archaeological on the Pomerania-Greater Poland border zone and study covering the whole of the Polish Plain aimed on the long-distance route connecting the north and at recognizing similarly located settlement points, south? What form had the centre’s infrastructure in whose main feature would be the existence of an island successive stages of its use? How should the functional situated on the borderline. These studies are currently and chronological relationships between the structures being conducted within the framework of the project on the island and the stronghold settlement in the “Man in the borderland – interregional communication peninsula be interpreted? What was the purpose of the systems” implemented by the Institute of Archaeology stone surface and metalling covering most of the island? of the Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń. We Did the remains of wooden structures discovered around assume that only the results of these studies may provide the island form wharves or perhaps other structures a basis for interpretation in comparative terms of many such as palafitte or ramparts? How and when did the problems formulated in this paper.

1.2. Description of the archaeological sites

he early medieval settlement complex in Żółte is situated about 5 km to the north of Drawsko TPomorskie in the north-western part of Lake Zarańskie, on the peninsula and the island constituting an elevated ridge of dead-ice moraine (see Chapter 3.1) (Fig. 1.7). Some portion of the site’s relict surface is situated underwater, both in the littoral zone as well as in deeper parts of the lake.

1.2.1. The stronghold and adjacent open settlement – sites 1, 1a, and 1b (peninsula)

The lowland stronghold, oval in plan with a diameter of Fig. 1.7. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship. Lidar imaging about 50 m is situated at the base of the peninsula (Fig. 1.8). (Centralny Ośrodek Dokumentacji Geodezyjnej i Kartogra- Its maximum height in relation to the water level is now ficznej 2014; elab. by M. Skrzatek) 1. Introduction 11

Fig. 1.8. Żółte, West Pomer- anian Voivodeship, site 1. The stronghold viewed from the north-west (photo by R. Kaźmierczak) about 7.5 m. The rampart is perceptible only in the north- depth of 0.5 m (Figs. 1.3, 1.4). Today the island has east part in the form of a small elevation of the surface and a surface area of about 0.4 ha and is an irregular oval a sharp undercut of the slope’s edge. In this part of the shape with dimensions of 90×55 m. In its southern part stronghold, at ground level, numerous cobbles, forming there is a small bay probably formed as a result of the in places a type of surface or natural metalling (cobbled lake’s wave activity and associated erosion process. The surface), were recorded. Today the monument is heavily island is relatively heavily wooded. Along the shoreline wooded and partially levelled by intensive land cultivation of the lake alder trees predominate, while in the central conducted in this place until the beginning of the 20th part hazel and robinia bushes as well as single trees, century. In a promontory directly to the south-east of including ash trees and a century-old oak tree are the stronghold an open settlement (site 1b, Figs. 1.3, 1.4, prevalent. On the surface of the island, especially in 1.8) is situated. In this part of the peninsula traces of the its eastern and southern parts, numerous granite stones levelling works are perceptible, and within it two terraces form a type of metalling. are clearly visible; the higher one directly adjacent to the Around the island, in the littoral zone of the lake, there stronghold, and the lower one located along the former are numerous oak posts, usually protruding above the shoreline of the lake. The second open settlement (site 1a) current water level (Figs. 1.5, 1.6). They are visible along is situated directly to the north-west of the stronghold on almost the entire shoreline of the island, in a band about a gentle incline sloping towards the biogenic plain. 2–3 m wide. Several oak posts are also to be found in the isthmus between the island and the peninsula as well as in the deeper parts of the lake. On the western side they are located at a depth of about 7.5–8 m, arranged 1.2.2. The island – site 33 in a row at a distance of about 19–25 m from the present shoreline of the island. At the bottom of the lake there are The island is separated from the peninsula by an isthmus also natural elevations with large boulders – granitoids about 20–25 m wide and currently with a maximum on which animal bones were discovered.

1.3. History of research

he first archaeological testing of the stronghold in sketch showing the site location, the position of the Żółte (site 1) and the nearby settlement (site 1b) trenches and the site’s section including also the nearby Twas conducted in 1896 by a German archaeologist island (Muzeum Zachodniopomorskie, file No. 254). Six and conservator, Adolf Stubenrauch of the Museum of 1 m wide test trenches were opened, including three on Antiquities in Szczecin (Gesellschaft für Pommersche the stronghold, and three in the south-western part of the Geschichte und Altertumskunde). From these excava- peninsula (Fig. 1.9). A dozen-odd pottery fragments were tions a report has survived containing a hand drawn found. They were partially or fully slow wheel-thrown 12 W. Chudziak, R. Kaźmierczak

Fig. 1.9. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivode- ship. Situation sketch of the early medieval settlement complex with localisation of archaeological trenches from 1896. Cor- responding to site 1 on the today’s peninsula, both the island’s and the peninsula’s cross-sections are presented on the left margin of the sketch (after A. Stuben- rauch, National Museum in Szczecin ar- chive, folder 254)

(Olczak, Siuchniński 1966, Fig. 61a–d). The presence of wooden structures around the island, however, was not recorded. Due to the high level of the lake they were not visible. Based on A. Stubenrauch’s sketch it should be assumed that the access to the island was difficult. It was partly marshy and heavily overgrown. The results of the excavations from 1896 formed the basis of information about the stronghold in Żółte for decades (Monatsblätter 1907, p. 111; Walter 1908, p. 216; Łęga 1930, pp. 427, 441, 522, 621; Kunkel 1932, p. 92; Eggers 1960, p. 44). The next testing, field walking and surface survey work were conducted by the Chair of Prehistoric Archaeology of the Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań under the direction of K. Siuchniński in 1962, in connection with the planned verification of strongholds in the Koszalin Voivodeship (Siuchniński, Olczak, Lachowicz 1962, pp. 128–138; Wilke 1963, p. 173; Olczak, Siuchniński 1966, pp. 77–82). In the stronghold’s open space four test trenches were opened, arranged along one axis, Fig. 1.10. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship, site 1. Con- tour plan of the early medieval stronghold with localisation of northwest – southeast. One trench was opened in the archaeological trenches from 1962 (drawn by B. Kowalewska, northern part of the stronghold (Fig. 1.10). Test trenches after Olczak, Siuchniński 1966, Fig. 59) 1–4 measured from 0.35×0.35 m to 0.65×0.65 m, and 1. Introduction 13

Fig. 1.11. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship. Contour plan of the early medieval settlement complex situated on the peninsula (sites 1, 1a, and 1b) with the localisation of archaeological trenches from years 2008 and 2012 (drawn by T. Górzyński, M. Sosnowski) trench 5 was 0.8×1.2 m. Within trenches 1–4/62 a layer ed by the Institute of Archaeology of the Nicolaus of brown humus with a thickness of about 0.55 m and Copernicus University in Toruń (the Department without any archaeological material was found. In trench of Medieval and Post-Medieval Archaeology, from 5/62, where one small pottery fragment was found, three 2005 the Department of the Early Middle Ages and archaeological layers with a thickness of up to 1.3 m the Laboratory of Documentation and Conservation) were discovered. In this trench the natural layer was not (Figs. 1.11, 1.12). The whole research project was co- reached. A surface survey was carried out on the open ordinated by W. Chudziak and fieldwork was led by settlement on both sides of the stronghold (site 1b, on the R. Kaźmierczak. In 2003, underwater research was south-eastern side and 1a on the north-western side).1 carried out in the area of the lake around the settlement From the site of 1b four pottery fragments were collected, complex in Żółte, as part of the programme “Record including two pieces that had been slow wheel-thrown of underwater sites.” On the peninsula and the island, at the top, and two pieces that were unidentifiable. From a dozen military artefacts were discovered,2 but the site 1a 14 pottery fragments were collected, including six reason for undertaking long-term excavations in this pieces that had been slow wheel-thrown at the top, two place was the discovery of the remains of a wooden that were fully slow wheel-thrown, and six unidentifiable structure surrounding the island and the numerous ones. artefacts found on its surface. This discovery was made In 2003–2010 and 2012–2013 the settlement complex in the same year by P. Białowicz from the Humbak in Żółte underwent systematic excavations conduct-� Underwater Club in Toruń and pre-verified, in the

1 The numbering of sites corresponds to Voivedeship Monuments 2 The underwater research in 2003 was co-funded by Inowrocławskie Conservator records. Zakłady Chemiczne Soda Mątwy S.A. 14 W. Chudziak, R. Kaźmierczak

Fig. 1.12. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship. Contour plan of the island (site 33) with the localisation of archaeological trenches from the years 2004–2010, 2012–2013 (drawn by T. Górzyński, R. Kaźmierczak, B. Kowalewska) form of a surface survey by J. Niegowski, S. Lipiejko, in August/September 2004, the first open settlement and R. Kaźmierczak. The first systematic excavations excavation trench was opened as well as six underwater on the island were undertaken as soon as the next year trenches in the shore zone of the island.3 The results and implemented in two stages. In May/June 2004 the of these works were the first data on the chronology recording of wooden post structures protruding above the water level was undertaken, 16 test bore-holes and 3 In 2004 and 2012 the research was co-funded by the Office of the four test trenches (1–4/04) were set. In the second stage, Municipal Council in Drawsko Pomorskie. 1. Introduction 15

and function of the island (Ważny 2004) and provided Toruń (A.M. Noryśkiewicz, Institute of Archaeology the basis for the formulation of the long-term research of the Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń), programme, which was carried out in subsequent years. an archaeobotanical study of materials obtained on The research was carried out under the following the island from both land and underwater excava- research projects: the State Committee for Scien- tions (K. Pińska, University of Gdańsk), a research tific Research (2005–2006, “Early medieval places palaeogeomorphological study carried out on the of worship at inland water areas of lakes in Middle island and its immediate surroundings in 2012–2013 Pomerania” – contract No. 1H01H02729, manager (J. Kordowski, Institute of Geography of the Polish Ryszard Kaźmierczak); the Ministry of Culture and Academy of Sciences in Toruń), and a hydrological National Heritage (2007–2008, operational programme: study in 2012–2013 (K. Kubiak-Wójcicka, Chair of Cultural Heritage, priority: Protection of Archaeolog- Hydrology and Water Management of the Nicolaus ical Heritage, task: “Comprehensive archaeological Copernicus University in Toruń). The main part of the research (land and underwater) in Żółte, West Po- dendrochronological study was conducted by T. Ważny meranian Voivodeship, site 33”), Nicolaus Copernicus from the Institute of Conservation of the Nicolaus University internal grants (2009–2010) and National Copernicus University in Toruń while additional Science Centre (2012–2013, “The island in Żółte at the analyses of this type, and radiocarbon analyses were turn of the 1st and 2nd millennium – a multifunctional carried out by M. Krąpiec from the Laboratorium socio-cultural centre in West Pomerania” – contract Datowań Bezwzględnych in Cianowice4 and T. Goslar No. UMO-2011/01/B/HS3/03014, manager Wojciech from the Poznan Radiocarbon Laboratory. Chudziak). The results of individual excavation seasons were The comprehensive archaeological research in these presented in 2005–2013 during report conferences with- years mainly covered the area of the island and the bottom in the Pomeranian Session (Chudziak, Kaźmierczak, of the lake in its immediate vicinity. In 2008, additional Niegowski 2007b; 2009; Kaźmierczak, Błędowski, testing within the stronghold (site 1) was undertaken Hildebrandt, Kalinowski, et al. 2011; Kaźmierczak, and in 2012 excavations also took place on the open Chudziak, Błędowski, Kowalewska et al. [in print]) settlement area (site 1b) (Fig. 1.11). and in the form of unpublished reports (Kaźmierczak, In accordance with the adopted research programme Niegowski 2003). Some issues also became subjects formulated in the framework of the State Committee of separate works on certain problems (Chudziak, for Scientific Research and National Science Centre Kaźmierczak, Niegowski 2007a; Chudziak 2007; 2009; project numerous natural studies were conducted 2013). A comprehensive approach to source analyses simultaneously. Among them special attention should results, and their interpretation are presented in this be paid to the palynological study of the lake bottom study. sediments carried out in June 2005 by the Institute 4 Radiocarbon analyses were financed by the Voivodeship Monu- of Geography of the Polish Academy of Sciences in ments Conservator in Szczecin in 2008.

1.4. Range and methods of research

ost of the excavation work was carried out on the natural levels, and documenting them according to the island. In total during nine seasons 93 trenches standards defined in the Ordinance of the Ministry of Mboth on land and underwater were opened cover- Culture (Fig. 1.13). The underwater excavations were ing an area of 10.36 are (Fig. 1.12). In addition, test trenches carried out within 2×2 m trenches using an ejector, were also set within the stronghold and open settlement. In by which the lake bottom sediments were removed this case, the range of excavation work was much smaller. (Figs. 1.14, 1.15). In addition, in the immediate vicinity On the stronghold four trenches with a total surface of 0.333 of the island and the peninsula an underwater survey are were set, while in the open settlement one trench was was carried out. Its result was the discovery of wooden opened (surface 0.61 are; Fig. 1.11). structures and artefacts at a greater distance from The land excavations were conducted using con- the island. Some of them were located using a metal ventional techniques, exploring layers down to the detector. 16 W. Chudziak, R. Kaźmierczak

Fig. 1.13. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivode- ship, site 33. Archae- ological trenches on the island (photo by R. Mieszek)

Fig. 1.14. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship, site 33. Un- Fig. 1.15. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship, site 33. Un- derwater excavations in module A (photo by B. Kowalewska) derwater excavations in module C (photo by R. Kaźmierczak)

1.5. Source base of the study

he basis of the study consists of source materials special artefacts were recovered. In addition, 11298 obtained in the course of research conducted animal bone fragments were found, of which 8897 Tin 2003–2010 and 2012–2013. As a result of have been analysed (Chapter 7). In addition, during systematic excavations on the island a large number the study, 51 archaeobotanical samples containing of data on the stratigraphy and numerous wooden and 24 930 diaspores belonging to 291 taxa were acquired stone structures, both on the land part of the island (Chapter 8). as well as in its underwater vicinity, was obtained. In the study the results of palynological, geomor- Furthermore, the testing provided new data on the phological, hydrological, dendrochronological, and cultural stratigraphy of the stronghold and open set- radiocarbon studies carried out during the long-term tlement. In total, about 47 000 objects, mainly pottery research programme were utilised, mainly by the authors (35 699 fragments – Chapter 6.1), and 978 so-called of these works. 2. Chronology

2.1. Stratigraphical method

he basic method of defining the individual stages of the use of the island, and thus of Tdetermining its relative chronology, is the traditional stratigraphical method, which is based on the results of the analysis of the sequence of cultural layers and related stone and wooden structures in various spatial relations. The detailed results of the stratigraphical analysis are presented in Chapter 4. Only general findings are discussed here that that allow us to draw conclusions concerning the basis of the determination of the relative chronology of the sites in question (Fig. 2.1). The starting point of this analysis is the original surface configuration that was reconstructed based on the levels of the natural layer. In previous publications, two main phases of the use of the island were identified (Chudziak, Kaźmierczak, Niegowski 2009, p. 371). The first of them was identified by the remains of the surrounding palisade and wooden grate located immediately next to it. The second phase was associated with the stone metalling covering most of the island and a centrally located building as well as surrounding platforms and a bridge leading towards the nearby peninsula. As a result of the comprehensive stratigraphical analysis, including the excavations carried out in the last season (2013), it was found that there are grounds to provide more details concerning the successive stages of use of this place within the following phases:

2.1.1. The first phase (I)

1. We can link it with the surrounding construction in the form of single, and in places, a double row of an Fig. 2.1. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship, site 33, trench oak palisade and adjacent to it on the landward side, 18/08. Stratification sequence (photo by R. Kaźmierczak) 18 W. Chudziak, R. Kaźmierczak

a wooden grate constructed of multiple species of wood (pine, birch, and alder). There are no cultural layers in the central part of the island that can be associated with this period. 2. This stage was linked to the stone footing that was recorded in the western part of the island and was laid directly on the wooden grate construction; covering it was the clay embankment that was recorded along almost the entire shore of the island, adjacent to the line of the palisade. There are no cultural layers in the central part of the island which would date from this period. 3. With the next stage of use of the island was linked the cultural layer deposited in zones and the large granitoid related to it (zone of intense settlement activity) located in the secondary deposit in relation to its original location probably adequate for phase Ia, b; with this stage of use of the island was also linked the stone metalling that occurred in zones in the south-east and north-east parts of the island, where the so-called pylons forming the base of an entrance gate leading from the peninsula were discovered. We can also link a stone structure with this phase. It served as a ramp towards the lake from the south-west part of the island.

2.1.2. The second phase (II)

1. With this phase of use of the island we can link cultural layer (3) and the 10 settlement pits located throughout it that lay directly under the stone metalling from the youngest sub-phase and the cultural layer in trench 8/08 (4); their younger stratigraphical position in relation to layers from phase IIb was recorded in trenches 8/08; 15/07 and 22/12; with this layer was also linked the oldest phase of construction of the surrounding wharves, the platforms related to them as well as the bridge leading towards the peninsula. 2. Almost the entire surface of the island was covered with metalling made of split stones. In the central part of the island the stone foundation of a probable wooden building was found. It was rectangular in plan (possibly linked to the building in phase IIa); with this phase of use of the island we can also link numerous oak posts surrounding the island associated with repairs of the platforms (Fig. 2.2).

Fig. 2.2. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship, site 33. Cross-section of the island with different phases of its use (drawn by R. Kaźmierczak) 2. Basis of chronology 19 2.2. Typological-comparative method – pottery and other artefacts

ne of the basic methods of dating the phases on certain sites in Pomerania and the North Elbe River of use of the island described in Chapter 2.1 is area, especially in Szczecin (Łosiński, Rogosz 1983), Othe typological-comparative method, which Białogard (Dulinicz 2001, p. 236), Starigard/Oldenburg was applied to the large assemblage of pottery that was (Gabriel, Kempke 1991), Stargard (Rogosz 1986) and found on the island, both on land and underwater (more recently also in Wolin (Stanisławski 2012) proved that than 35 000 fragments of vessels). In the archaeology of the quantitative and percentage distribution of basic the early medieval West Slavs’ territory it was proved groups of vessels is variable and can be an indication of many years ago that the results of technological and the chronological position of early medieval assemblages stylistic analysis of pottery could be, regardless of the from this area (Fig. 2.3). existing limitations of this method, a relatively good This principle, however, cannot be applied in the indicator of the relative and absolute chronology of case of the small assemblage of vessels from phase Ia, archaeological sites from this period. This area, how- non-representative in quantitative and percentage ever, has not been entirely and sufficiently studied in terms, where vessels of the Menkendorf type (11 spec- this regard. In the case of the Baltic Slavs territory, imens), and one specimen included to the Sukow type especially West Pomerania and the North Elbe River occurred. The situation is different in the case of area, the development of research on pottery produc- pottery materials associated with phase Ic which met tion, especially the methods of synchronizing cultural the criterion of representativeness, and contained about layers based on pottery material, is quite advanced, 90% of fragments of vessels with the characteristics of which allows us to refer to these results (Schuldt 1964; the Menkendorf type that commonly occurred in the Brather 1996; Łosiński 1972; Cnotliwy, Łosiński 1983; 9th–10th centuries. The next in numerical terms were Łosiński, Rogosz 1986; Cnotliwy 1986; Rogosz 1986; the Feldberg type vessels which were dominant in the Stanisławski 2012). The basic criterion of the pottery second half of the 8th and the early 9th centuries. Still assemblage division is the production technique of present in a significant proportion in the second-third the vessels and then the morphological and stylistic quarter of the 9th century were vessels of the Sukow features, the use of which allowed the researchers of type (about 3%), representing in typological terms the Baltic Slavs’ territory to identify the main types of the oldest group of vessels in the north-west Slavs vessels (Schuldt 1964; Łosiński 1972) while in the case territory (2.2%), and vessels of the Woldegk type (1.2%) of materials from the families of the Szczecin type, characteristic for the second half of the 9th and the grouping assemblages with common stylistic features 10th centuries (Stanisławski 2012, p. 59). In assemblages was undertaken (Łosiński, Rogosz 1983, p. 203). With from phase Ic isolated fragments of Vipperow type reference to these classifications, in the assemblage of vessels (1%) and Weisdin (0.83%) were also found. pottery from Żółte, three main groups of vessels, char- They appear in a greater proportion in Szczecin in acterized by their highest frequency were distinguished: assemblages from the second half of the 10th century a) vessels partially slow wheel-thrown referring to the and the beginning of the 11th century. A similar per- Menkendorf group, type D also called the Szczecin type centage ratio in different types of vessels was found (18%); b) vessels fully slow wheel-thrown corresponding in the case of the vessels’ assemblage from Oldenburg to the Vipperow group, type G (40%); and c) vessels (Starigard), where from the end of the 9th-century to fully slow wheel-thrown corresponding to the Teterow the early 11th-century vessels of the Menkendorf type group, type J (32%). Relatively less frequently occurring were the main techno-stylistic component, especially (to 0.5%) were partially slow wheel-thrown vessels that against the background of the small percentage of were the counterparts of the Sukow group (types A, Feldberg type vessels and few fully slow wheel-thrown B), and these were the Feldberg (C), the Woldegk (E) vessels (horizon 3b–4a; Gabriel, Kempke 1991, Fig. 15). and the Fresendorf (F) groups; and in the cases of fully A similar situation was observed on Wzgórze Zamkowe slow wheel-thrown vessels the Weisdin (H), the Warder (Castle Hill) in Szczecin, where Menkendorf type (I) and the Bobzin ones (M). A greater frequency was vessels dominated from the 9th/10th century to the identified only in the case of type K (6.2%). Excavations first quarter of the 11th century (Cnotliwy, Łosiński 20 W. Chudziak, R. Kaźmierczak

Fig. 2.3. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship. Diagram of main types of vessels (elab. by P. Błędowski, drawn by B. Kowalewska)

1983, Fig. 204). Such a high percentage of these vessels 11th century (e.g. Oldenburg – Gabriel, Kempke 1991, were also recorded at the turn of the 9th and in the Fig. 15; Rogosz 1986, Fig. 7). first half of the 10th century in Białogard in the 7th Their relatively high share within assemblages assigned phase of the stronghold (Cnotliwy 1982; Łosiński 1996; to phase II, however, may be partly due to the presence of Brather 1996). Based on this, it can be assumed that materials from phase Ic in the secondary deposit. the oldest stages of the use of the island identified in Shares of the two basic techno-stylistic groups of phase I should be placed in the period from the end of vessels and the low percentage of the Menkendorf type the 9th century to the second half of the 10th century vessels indicate that both subphases should be dated to (the first quarter of the 11th century?). The date of the the 11th century, mainly to the second-fourth quarter of second half of this century is also evidenced by the the 11th century according to the dendrochronological presence within material from phase Ic of fully slow dating of shore structures (see Chapter 2.4). wheel-thrown vessels of the Vipperow and Weisdin In addition, apart from the pottery, more than 700 types whose frequency at that time is still very low. special artefacts were discovered, but the majority of The shares of particular groups of vessels look them have no chronological value. However, some are differently in the case of vessels’ assemblages present of note: a Silesian type iron bowl (phase II, 11th cen- in layers associated with phase II of the use of the tury), a Frankish type spearhead (9th–10th centuries), island, but it should be noted that both subphases an assemblage of wooden artefacts, mostly spoons identified by the stratigraphical method do not show decorated in the ring-chain style (phase II, 11th cen- large differences in this respect. In both subphases, tury), a circular pendant (phase Ic, 10th century), vessels of the Vipperow (41%) and the Teterow (phase an oval brooch (10th–11th centuries), and merchant IIa – 35.2%, IIb – 39%) groups dominated occurring in utensils, especially the assemblage of iron weights similar percentages not sooner than in the second-third both cubo-octahedral (type A) and barrel-shaped quarter of the 11th century (e.g. Szczecin – Cnotliwy, ones (type B) (phase II, 11th century). The chronology Łosiński 1983, Fig. 204; Oldenburg – Gabriel, Kempke of the vast majority of artefacts covers the 9th/10th– 1991, Fig. 15; Stargard – Rogosz 1986, Fig. 7). A lower 11th centuries. Their detailed typological-comparative frequency was observed in the case of Menkendorf analysis is presented in Chapter 6. Of unique scientific type vessels (IIa – 16.1%, IIb – 11.2%), occurring even importance, however, are coins, which are discussed in a significantly high percentage in the first half of the separately. 2. Basis of chronology 21 2.3. Numismatic sources

n the island in Żółte fourteen coins were island’s occupation, specimens almost exclusively dated discovered both in the layers on land (three to the 11th century, including six from the second half Ospecimens) and underwater (11 specimens). The of that century were recorded (one coin is not identi- oldest of them is fragment of a Sasanid or Arabo-Sasa- fied – Inv. No. 92/08, two pennies, probably German, nid drachma from the 6th–7th centuries known as the were not classified due to the poor state of preservation, Chosrow (Xusro) type (Göbl 1971, Tab. XIV, Pl. 15) Inv. Nos. 44/12 and 41/13). The best preserved were discovered in layer 4 in trench 31/13, associated with specimens of Western European coins: Otto III’s penny, phase Ic of the island’s use (identification D. Malarczyk 983–1002 (Inv. No. 45/12), a 1/4 of Otto and Adelaide’s from the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Jagiello- penny, 995–1010/1020 (Inv. No. 92/12), and an imitation nian University in Kraków). Based on the results of of Andernach and Cologne’s pennies, 1050–1080/1090 the chronological analysis of pottery from this layer it (Inv. No. 38/12), and also two imitations of pennies from should be assumed that the date of issue of the drachma the second half of the 11th century, probably issued in is much earlier than its deposition. It is possible that Pomerania (Inv. Nos. 90/06 and 72/09). Apart from them, it arrived to West Pomerania with the oldest wave of there were also cross pennies of type V (Inv. No. 39/13), Arabian coins, i.e. about the end of the 8th and the first V–VI (Inv. No. 19/13) and younger types (Inv. Nos. 14/09, quarter of the 9th centuries. It should be associated with 24/08, and 59/09), traditionally associated with the second a group of finds that are contemporary with it from the half of the 11th century. Particular important are a cluster Kołobrzeg area (Łosiński 1988, pp. 127–140). Such an of three coins found in the same stratigraphical context early specimen is also known from the nearby hoard in an underwater trench (17/w/12) on the north-eastern from Łabędzie deposited not sooner than after 929 side of the island (Inv. Nos. 45/12, 38/12, and 44/12). (Kiersnowscy 1959, p. 62). Single specimens of Sasanid The group of coins in question contain the oldest in this coins have even been recorded from Pomeranian hoards assemblage, namely Otto III’s penny, and, therefore, deposited in the 11th century (Kiersnowscy 1959, p. 51). essentially corresponds to the chronology of phase II Amongst the other coins identified by A. Musiałowski of use of this place, as determined by independent (the District Museum in Toruń), which were found in indicators for the period to the second-fourth quarter the archaeological layers from the second phase of the of the 11th century.

2.4. Dendrochronological dating

he basic tool of absolute dating of excavated wooden 887 and after 900). The chronology was further verified structures and the phases of use of the island related by the results of radiocarbon dating (see Chapter 1.5). Tto them is the dendrochronological method that has Two samples of wood from the palisade discovered in been used for decades in the archaeology of the Early Middle another place were also subjected to analysis at the second Ages. The analyses of wood fromŻółte were conducted in laboratory. Due to the preserved sapwood it was possible two laboratories: the Laboratorium Datowań Bezwzględnych to date the time of the tree felling to 886 and 890 (Fig. 2.4). in Cianowice (M. Krąpiec) and the Dendrochronological Laboratory of the Institute of Conservation of the Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń (T. Ważny). In the first of these laboratories, four samples of oak from the palisade related to the oldest stage of the island’s use were analysed – phase Ia (trench 19/09) (Krąpiec 2010). Unfortunately, in no case was the sapwood preserved, hence all identifications define only the terminus post quem of Fig. 2.4. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship, site 33. Den- the felling of trees used for the palisade construction (after drochronological diagram for phase Ia (elab. by T. Ważny) 22 W. Chudziak, R. Kaźmierczak, T. Ważny

Fig. 2.5. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship, site 33. Dendrochronological dating of wood from module C. Key: 1 – compact layer of pebbles with lacustrine sands (layer 1); 5 – wickerwork mat (layer 3b); 7 – biogenic layer with wood and stones (layer 5); 8 – biogenic layer with wood, pebbles, and lacustrine sands (layer 6). Encircled numbers correspond with catalogue of layers items (drawn by R. Kaźmierczak, B. Kowalewska)

A long series of dendrochronological analyses was a total of 94 samples of oak, of which 57 were dated. The carried out for underwater wooden structures, inter- results are presented in Fig. 3. The first five samples in preted as wharves and platforms (underwater trenches; the diagram did not have the external layer of sapwood. Ważny 2007; 2013) (Figs. 2.5, 2.6). The study included Considering the unknown number of missing heartwood rings – it was possible to provide the earliest possible date of felling (1021 AD), which occurred several or a dozen years after that date. The seemingly oldest posts, Nos. 16/12 and 25/12 had the youngest rings 0.25–0.4 mm wide, which means that 1 cm of a missing heartwood layer would contain about 25–40 rings. A complete outer Fig. 2.6. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship, site 33. Sam- layer of wood allowed for the dating of most samples with ples cut from oak posts (photo by R. Kaźmierczak) an accuracy of one year. The results distribution allows 2. Basis of chronology 23

five stages of construction and repairs of the structure the two youngest (II4, 5, 1072–1083) are concurrent with to be clearly distinguished: 1 – 1042–1047, 2 – 1056/1057, sub phase IIb (Fig. 2.7). The synchronization of the stages 3 – 1064–1067, 4 – 1072/1073, and 5 – 1079–1083. All the of use of the island as well as the construction of wharves identified stages belong essentially to the second phase of and platforms is only of hypothetical value, because none the island’s use, but the first three stages (II1–3; 1042–1067) of the excavated places in the shoreline zone have had should be probably linked with subphase IIa, meanwhile their chronological relationships confirmed.

Fig. 2.7. Żółte, West Pomeranian Voivodeship, site 33. Dendrochronological diagram for phase II (elab. by T. Ważny) 24 W. Chudziak, R. Kaźmierczak 2.5. Radiocarbon dating

he usefulness of the radiocarbon method for the 2. Due to the lack of appropriate materials for den- dating of early medieval sites is widely known, drochronological dating radiocarbon analyses were also Tas too are its limitations. The basis of dating of conducted on wood samples from the grate structures the island in Żółte was dendrochronology, and hence, associated with the oldest phase of use of the island. The radiocarbon analyses were undertaken only in special earliest date, consistent with the palisade dating, was cases. In total 14 samples for radiocarbon dates were produced by a wood sample from trench 10/05 (Poz-21958, submitted, twelve of them to the Laboratorium Datowań 1120±30 BP), dated after calibration to 860–1000 AD Bezwzględnych in Cianowice (M. Krąpiec) and three (probability 93.6%). More dating was carried out for to the Poznan Radiocarbon Laboratory (T. Goslar) materials from trench 19/09. Five reliable dates were ob- (Fig. 2.8). tained indicating the younger position of these structures 1. Radiocarbon analyses included samples of oak from in relation to the wood used in the construction of the the palisade from the first phase of use of the island palisade (MKL-692, 1040±40 BP; MKL-693, 1050±40 BP; (trench 19/09). The dendrochronological dating that MKL-694, 1090±40 BP; MKL-695, 1020±40 BP; MKL- was based on a relatively small number of rings required 700, 1030±30 BP). After calibration four dates were found additional radiocarbon dating (MKL-696, 1180±40 BP; to range in the period 870/890–1030/1040 AD, while the MKL-697, 1190±40 BP; MKL-698, 1100±50 BP; MKL- fifth one was in the 950–1050 AD period (probability 699, 1140±40 BP). After calibration three dates were 91%), essentially suggesting their relationship with the found to range in the period 760/770–970/990 AD 10th century, and in the case of the fifth sample, even to (probability 95.4%), while the fourth, the youngest the first half of the 11th century. (MKL-698) was in the period 800–1030 AD (probability 3. The radiocarbon analyses were also undertaken in 94.4%). cases of some artefacts discovered underwater, whose

Fig. 2.8. Żółte, West Pomerani- an Voivodeship, site 33. Listing of radiocarbon analyses (elab. by M. Krąpiec [MKL], T. Goslar [Poz]) 2. Basis of chronology 25 chronological and cultural context was uncertain. canoe discovered on the west side of the island that Among them were two skeletons of horses dated, in was not suitable for dendrochronological dating. Its one case, by the accelerator method to 980±35 BP conventional age was 950±40 BP (MKL-62), and after (990–1160 AD, 95.4%), while the second one was dated calibration, it was dated to the period 1010–1190 AD to 960±50 BP (990–1190 AD, 95.4%; MKL-701). Both (95.4%). In connection with archaeobotanical studies, dates indicate that the skeletons of the horses should rye grains that were recorded under the stone metalling be linked to the early medieval settlement on the associated with phase IIa of the use of the island were island, especially with its second phase. From about radiocarbon dated (layer 3; Pińska 2011; Poz 21957; the same period is a radiocarbon dated dugout oak 965±30 BP).

2.6. Summary

s a result of the multi-directional analysis of 2. Phase Ib – the third and fourth quarter of the archaeological layers from the island, based 10th century (?) Aprimarily on the results of a study on pottery, 3. Phase Ic – the fourth quarter of the 10th centu- coins, and the use of methods of natural sciences, the ry–10th/11th century chronological framework for the individual phases of use 4. Phase IIa – the second-third quarter of the of the site in question has been established. 11th century (ad quem 1042/1060s) 1. Phase Ia – ad quem 886–the third quarter of the 5. Phase IIb – the fourth quarter of the 11th century 10th century (1070s–1080s)–11th/12th century (?)

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