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In this study, we present the full sequence of Eemian succession from the Kozłów palaeolake – one of the key sites for Eemian Interglacial in this part of Poland. In the paper, previous palynological and diatom assessments were supplemented by further pollen, Cladocera and macrofossil analysis. This enabled detailed reconstruction of a palaeolake functioning under changes of climate and other environmental conditions during MIS 5e. All identified alterations of trophy, depth and aquatic vegetation within the reservoir point to dynamic changes in early stages of lake functioning, relatively stable conditions in mid-Eemian and gradual lake shallowing starting from Caprinus phase. Thus, Kozlów palaeolake joins the noble group of sites with exceptionally well-recognized multi-proxy records of the Eemian Interglacial environment, and has the potential to become a benchmark for this part of Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A faunal assemblage was recently recovered from the Krosinko site in Poland, marking a new site in the Warsaw–Berlin ice-marginal valley. Analysis and radiocarbon dating of the remains revealed the presence of two subassemblages: one Late Pleistocene (at least MIS 3–2) and one Holocene (MIS 1), with the former being taxonomically highly diverse. By referring to previous Polish studies, the Pleistocene mammal bone assemblage allowed us to reconstruct the biogeography of its individual components: woolly mammoths, woolly rhinoceri, horses, giant deer, red deer, fallow deer, reindeer, steppe bison, aurochses, bears, and cave lions. The biogeography was later combined with radiocarbon chronology using 21 dates from Krosinko. The wide range of radiocarbon dates (48.4–26.4 ka BP) probably reflects different chronological distributions of species resulting from the changing climate and environment as well as the diverse original sources of the bones. The remains, which constituted a single, compact geological horizon, was possibly deposited in a single geological event around 26 ka BP, as inferred from the most recently produced radiocarbon date. Radiocarbon datings of woolly rhinoceros remains have shown the species to have been present around 38 ka BP, a time that it had previously been considered to have been non-existent in Europe (with no evidence having been discovered for the period 40–34 ka BP). This result alters the stratigraphic gap range for the woolly rhinoceros in Europe to 40–38 ka BP. The clear dominance of woolly mammoth and woolly rhinoceros specimens reflects the structure of the Mammuthus–Coelodonta faunal complex. The main representatives of this complex preferred the dry and cold conditions that characterized the palaeoenvironmental conditions in Krosinko in MIS 2 and thus in Central Europe, as shown by the integration of the results of the fauna and those of the sediments in which they were deposited. These palaeoenvironmental features are related to the mammoth steppe, which was a long-lived biome in Eurasia and whose diversity influenced the faunal distribution. Thus, the species-by-species review of taxa performed in this paper, against the background of previous results from Poland, illuminates the individual responses of taxa to changing environmental conditions in response to climatic ones. These changes led to the disappearance of the mammoth steppe and near or total extinction of the fauna species inhabiting it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sites identified as the Early Upper Palaeolithic (EUP or transitional industries) in Central Europe (CE) have become subject to extensive discussion on the possible interactions between anatomically modern humans and indigenous human species which inhabited the area in the Marine Isotopic Stage 3 (MIS 3, 50–35 ka BP). An open-air site Dzierżysław 1 (SW Poland), known for nearly a hundred years, played a crucial role in envisaging scenarios associated with the development and adaptation of the EUP society. In the late 20th c., due to the excavations in the southern part of the site, it was given status of a multicultural site, with artefacts assigned to the Micoquian, Bohunician and Szeletian culture. This paper presents the findings of the multi-faceted revision of this site. We present the results of field work and chronometric analyses based on a new set of samples and archaeological study of archive records. The use of optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) showed that all the sediments of the site should be assigned to the Plenivistulian (MIS 4/3 and MIS 2). The new chronometric assessment indicates the absence of deposits corresponding to the transitional industries' time window. The sedimentological data integrating with spatial distribution of finds and raw material variation as well as state of preservation and typo-technological features of lithic artefacts indicate that the inventory represents a compilation of the late Middle Palaeolithic (MP, Micoquian) and classical Upper Palaeolithic industries (Aurignacian or Gravettian) with very few pieces corresponding with indeterminate EUP industry. The revision throws a light on the situation in the Moravian Gate and areas north of the Carpathians and Sudetes. The results suggest that sites from the late MP are more numerous than those from the EUP. It seems that the over-representation may result from a long time of accumulation during the MP period. It cannot be excluded that the small number of EUP sites reflects a marginal role of the area north of the Sudetes and Carpathians in the human occupation system of that time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genesis of crevasse-fill forms was clearly explained and ascribed to surging ice based on research made particularly in contemporary-glaciated areas of high latitudes. Nonetheless, the understanding and explanation of their formation is still not conclusive for Pleistocene glacigenic forms developing in crevasses what makes differences in their interpretation visible in glacial geomorphology of the East and West. Those forms in the East are still linked to stagnant Pleistocene ice-sheet dynamics and still named crevasse-fill forms what makes a huge misunderstanding in comparison of these modern and ancient equivalents. This paper makes an attempt to investigate this topic through comparison of features of "stagnant" and "surging" crevasse-fill forms, i.e. their morphology, lithology, location against direction of ice advance and – for the first time – sedimentary environment of crevasse-fill deposits. Recognition of deposits with using lithofacies analysis became a crucial method for classification of Pleistocene glacigenic forms, especially in the East. Thus, research on presented tree examples of so-called "crevasse-fill forms" based on facies analysis of sedimentary environments and their other characteristic features allowed to explain the characteristics of landforms developed from stagnant ice and to exclude them from the group of their "surging" equivalents. This misinterpretation results from different schools of thought in glacial geomorphology of the East and West. Based on presented research, no prerequisites were documented to compare these landforms, because the palaeogeographical conditions of their development are completely different. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although multiple Mesolithic cave sites have been recognised in Europe, the use of such sites by Early Holocene hunter gatherers was extremely scarce north of the Carpathians. Single Mesolithic artefacts have been found thus far only in six cave sites in Poland. The rich Early Mesolithic assemblage found in Bramka Rockshelter in southern Poland seems to be quite extraordinary in such a context. The site was excavated over 50 years ago, but the results have never been published or analysed beyond a short mention of child burial found in the Mesolithic context. The paper presents new radiocarbon dates obtained for the Mesolithic occupation and the child burial, showing the Early Holocene chronology of the Komornician assemblage and the Late Bronze Age/Early Iron Age chronology of the burial. The assemblage's techno-typological analysis allowed us to identify six human occupation phases at the site, with the most intensive phase connected to the Mesolithic. Comparative analyses of other Mesolithic assemblages from the region, together with an extremely high percentage of debitage found in the Bramka Rockshelter assemblage, allow us to discuss the possibility of identifying the site as a knapping workshop located in the vicinity of Jurassic flint outcrops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review paper presents a comprehensive study of all available up to date anthracological assemblages recovered from 79 archaeological settlements of the Neolithic and Bronze Age periods from the loess regions of southern-Poland. The aim of the research is to reconstruct the character of the woodland developed in the loess belt (1) in the Atlantic phase, with a focus on the primeval forests, the successive cultural phases and their impact on local forests, and (2) in the Subatlantic phase, characterized by a late-migrating of trees such as hornbeam, beech and fir. For the Early Neolithic period, related with the first appearance of the stable and agrarian settlement, the research aims at testing the hypothesis about the existence of open oak-dominated forests in the Atlantic phase , with patches of steppe-like vegetation. The anthracological data indicate that indeed open canopy forests prevailed in the loess-mantled areas and this result has important implications for understanding the expansion of the first farmers into Central Europe, who settled mainly in loess belt zones. It is likely that open oakwoods played a significant role in the selection of the landscape suitable for settle down as well as was an indicator of rich soils developed on loess-substratum. Finally, the last-arriving trees in southern Poland, that are principal constituents of present-day forests communities, appeared in high shares in the second half of the 2nd millennium BC, but became important forest components mostly in the Carpathian Foothills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the results of the newly discovered Epigravettian site situated in the San river valley in the Carpathian foreland close to the Przemyśl Gate – sub- and cross-mountain route. The site lies at the edge of that culture's post-LGM re-settlement of that area. It is a unique remnant documenting the presence of an Epigravettian Culture community in areas at the very same time occupied by Magdalenian Culture people. The geological multiproxy record allows for the reconstruction of a loess plateau with an open landscape, with marked presence of trees, plus a short episode of more favourable climatic conditions following shortly after Heinrich event 1. At that time, a group of Epigravettian hunters established a short term camp close to the edge of the loess terrace on the left San River bank. [Display omitted] • Post-LGM resettlement of areas north of the Carpathians. • Unique example of an Epigravettian camp in the large Subcarpathian river valley. • Inventory made from the Volhynian (Ukrainian) flint, proving eastern provenance. • Open landscape around the camp-site with mosaic of steppe, grassland, park tundra. • Area inhabited by the Magdalenian and Epigravettian people at the same time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents results of morphological and petrological analyses of ground stone tool assemblage acquired from late Bronze Age settlement site at Niemczańska, Wrocław, Poland. The collection of six tools is functionally and petrologically diverse but comparable in terms of physical and mechanical properties, i.e. hardness and wear resistance. Exclusively hard and quartz-rich rocks were selected for tools production (granites, gneisses and sandstones). We applied complementary approaches: polarizing optical microscopy with modal mineralogical analyses, scanning electron microscopy and electron probe microanalyser for the petrographic and raw material provenance study. The results of our observations lead to the conclusion that raw material was collected locally from the surface deposits associated with glacial erratics brought to the area during MIS-16 to Saalian glaciations from Sweden and Åland Islands. Our observations confirm that erratics were a common source of raw material for the Odra Basin populations during the Bronze Age instead of autochthonic Sudetic or allogenic materials. Agricultural (grinder and grinding disc) and non-agricultural (whetstone, pad/fragment of a grinding disc, grinder and smoother) functions are recognised, based on morphological observations and use-wear traces. Three activity zones are distinguished at the site – production, habitation and possible cult zone with lithic tools spread within production and habitation zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the conclusions of an archaeometric study on two unique artefacts associated with the Early Bronze Age (EBA) Mierzanowice culture (MC) of south-eastern Poland. Two decorated animal bone pins were found in sepulchral context, each accompanying the skeletal remains of a young woman. Based on previous use-wear analysis, the artefacts are interpreted as clothing pins. Their main characteristic is a geometric decorative pattern in the form of incisions and grooves, filled with a dark, grainy substance. Additionally, one of the pins has a distinct green colouration, which extends over uneroded areas of the surface. An array of imaging and spectrometric techniques was employed to investigate both the inlay and the green staining. While the colouration appears to be post-depositional, the dark substance, identified as fine-grained quartz (possibly raw faience paste) mixed with a black, soot-based pigment (bistre) of adhesive properties, was intentionally applied to the surface of both artefacts. This finding reveals a broad range of skills employed by the craftsperson to manufacture the objects. EBA was a time of emerging specialisation and social stratification, during which local artisans worked within a micro-region producing 'special' items that were both functional and socially meaningful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is a critical verification of the late Middle Pleistocene stratigraphy in Poland in connection with stratigraphical schemes in the neighbouring countries. Although a terrestrial record of the Middle Pleistocene is almost complete in western and southern Europe, it is full of gaps in central and eastern Europe. Eight key sites in Poland and one in Belarus were selected to compile environmental and palaeoclimate data for a revised stratigraphy from the termination of MIS 12 to MIS 6, and the chronology was based on correlation with oxygen isotope stratigraphy and OSL ages. The late Middle Pleistocene record starts with the Holsteinian lake sequences, some of which have been initiated already at the end of MIS 12, persisted through MIS 11 and terminated in mid-MIS 10. In the examined sites, MIS 11 is represented also by deposits of meandering rivers in a temperate climate. In contrast, there is no evidence for deposition in most of MIS 10 and in MIS 9. A warmer and presumably wet episode at the beginning of MIS 8 lead to local erosion, followed by development of small lakes. Modest ice sheet advance into central Europe occurred in the second part of MIS 8, as reflected by a till, glaciofluvial and glaciolacustrine deposits and presumably, also by permafrost and ice wedges in western Belarus. MIS 7 seems to have been generally warm and wet when small lakes and meandering rivers could develop. Such mild conditions were interrupted with cool and probably drier episodes when braided rivers and limited pedogenesis occurred. Saalian ice sheet cover of central Europe in MIS 6 was widespread, but even more importantly, in this stage periglacial environments were dominant, as shown by continuous permafrost, intensive aeolian activity and development of ice wedges and involutions. Braided rivers developed during short wetter intervals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the first quantitative past land cover reconstructions for northern Poland using the Landscape Reconstruction Algorithm (LRA), interpreted alongside traditional percentage pollen data and historical sources. These data are used to evaluate the impact of cultural change on past vegetation and land-use in northern Poland during the last 2000 years. Vegetation change and land-use are apparent corresponding to the late Roman Iron Age (1st to 3rd centuries), Migration Period (4th–7th centuries), early Medieval (8th to early-13th centuries) and late medieval (early-13th to mid-15th centuries). The Roman Iron Age is characterised by significant land cover estimates for meadowland, likely part of a broad spectrum agricultural strategy. Widespread depopulation and woodland regrowth characterise the Migration Period, followed by the progressive clearance of woodland from the 7th/8th centuries corresponding to Slavic colonisation. Polish control of the region from the mid-10th century is accompanied by intensification in agricultural land-use. However, archaeological evidence for increasing settlement instability during the 11th/12th centuries is not obviously apparent in the palynological data. This likely reflects the sporadic nature and uneven impact of conflict, but also the difficulty in resolving short-term events in the palynological record. Significant woodland clearance occurred prior to the crusades, with the consequence that there is no clearly identifiable horizon of significant landscape change associated with the arrival of the Teutonic Order. However, large tracts of woodland survived in sparsely populated frontier zones and in areas with poor agricultural soils, managed as part of an extensive provisioning network covering the Teutonic Order's state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowa Biała 1 is a unique site of the Federmesser culture in the area of Carpathian Mountains, and also one of the few Final Palaeolithic sites known from this territory. From taxonomic point of view the artefacts represent the Federmesser culture as an element of Arch-backed points technocomplex (APT) – well known from the European Plain and practically quite unknown from the mountains till now. Hunters' camp, with the dwelling structure and workshop, was situated on a terrace of the Białka River close to its gorge, and in the proximity of a rocky hill (the Obłazowa Rock) – which itself was a great observation spot. The cultural layer found in the site was connected with an initial soil, the presence of which was observed within the aeolian loess-like deposits. Thie age of pedogenic processes (based on OSL dating) was undoubtedly younger than 14.7 ka and older than 11 ka. Radiocarbon dating suggests the Late Allerød age of the site. The present paper contains the results of fieldwork as well as geological and palaeobotanical analyses, provided data on the natural environment at the time when prehistoric hunters settled and also in the preceding period. According to study results, in the Late Glacial, during the time of this settlement in the vicinity of the Białka River gorge the patches of coniferous forests grew, in the valley habitats – alder and willow, and mires formed in the wetlands, rocky hills were covered with open plant communities with steppe and tundra elements. Variability of surrounding environs resulted in diversity of animal species and allowed Final Palaeolithic people to explore differentiated geoecosystems. Access to water and possibility of fishing was provided by the proximity of the river. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper presents a comprehensive palaeoenvironmental data set from a trough between glacial curvilineations (an intra-GCL trough) of the Dobrzyń Lake District, north-central Poland. A sediment core taken from the depression was investigated to reconstruct Late Glacial and Holocene environmental changes in north-central Poland using a combination of palynological, macrofossil, sedimentological and geochemical studies. Four main development phases of the studied intra-GCL trough were distinguished. Accumulation of the analysed sediments occurred from the Late Vistulian (Glacial Phase) through the Late Glacial to present times. Our data suggest the persistence of dead ice in the basin up to the Older Dryas (Lacustrine Phase). The sedimentary record of the depression reflects a considerable difference between the Late Glacial/early Holocene and the middle/late Holocene in terms of environmental conditions. The Late Glacial was characterised by rapid environmental changes, while climatic conditions throughout the Holocene were relatively stable, except for the Subboreal period. A small lake was strictly dependent on climatically controlled vegetation changes and erosion tendencies in the vicinity of the Zbójenko site. The lake finally disappeared at the turn of the Younger Dryas and the Preboreal Period. The Preboreal, Boreal and Atlantic Periods encompassed the Early Paludical Phase, during which the water level used to rise and hence the mire could be flooded. The area was covered with dense vegetation and the rate of denudation processes around the site was moderate. The Late Paludical Phase included the Subboreal and most of the Subatlantic. Deciduous forests (with Quercus, Carpinus, Corylus) dominated around the site. Major changes occurred between the late Subboreal and the early Subatlanic as a result of the growing human impact on the environment. The Subatlantic ends with the human impact phase (Middle Age), dominated by human impact, little accumulation of sediments and highly increased denudation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper focuses on the upland territory south-west of the Gulf of Gdańsk characterized by the existence of numerous hills with distinct ordering of their crest-line orientation. Characteristic features of relief in the Tczew Hump were analysed using GIS-based tools. Directional properties and morphometric characteristics are not uniform throughout the study area. Therefore, subsequent detailed analyses were performed after dividing it into three zones: north-western (NW), central and south-eastern (SE). The highest hills are situated in the central part of the Hump. The landforms analysed are mostly elongated, but they show varying elongation ratios (1.0–4.05). In general a NE-SW orientation is observed, however, the azimuthal distribution of their crest-lines shows considerable variation (from N-S to E-W). Two main systems of the crest-line orientation are distinguished: System A (NNE-SSW) and System B (NE-SW/ENE-WSW). The landforms considered are covered with till consisting of two subunits, what reflects two subsequent ice-sheet movement periods in the Late Weichselian but without releasing the area from ice-sheet cover. The subunits can be identified by changes in their petrographic composition – up to ten times more erratics of local provenance in the upper one than in the lower one. Ice flow direction during deposition of both till subunits, based on the till fabric of each of the three analysed sections, coincides with System A of the crest-lines. However, most of the till-covered hills fit System B, which suggests that they retained their previous (older than Late Weichselian) orientation. The complex relief of the Tczew Hump has a palimpsest nature and its arrangement emerged in several stages: (1) formation of the primeval relief before the Late Weichselian (hills built of sediments of heterogeneous ages); (2) partial relief reshaping in subglacial conditions during the two, successive, ice-flow events in the Late Weichselian (till-covered hills, clear bipartition of the till); (3) development of additional landforms during deglaciation − typically not covered with till (or with flow till on the slopes only), showing an orientation determined by the crevasse system developed in the ice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper discusses successive changes in the evolution of the fluvial system observed throughout the Błądzikowo Formation at the Mrzezino key site in northern Poland. The study focuses on the development of fluvial sedimentation during Marine Isotope Stage 7. The sedimentary record of the Pleistocene at the study site shows a well-developed sequence that is over 30 m thick. The Błądzikowo Formation shows a quick evolution of the fluvial system from a high-energy sandy braided river, to a meandering sandy river and, finally, to a low-energy meandering/anastomosing river with significant suspension settling. This transition is explained as a decrease in flow energy, increase in aggradation ratio and expansion of accommodation space during deposition time. A change in the fluvial system has not been manifested in the variations of the plant cover. Palynological analysis indicates that climate conditions were generally stable, cool and humid (boreal). Sediment transport occurred towards the N-NW, through a valley with a NW-SE axis. Infrared optically stimulated luminescence (IR-OSL) dating shows the sequence formed from 225.6 ± 17.2 to 210.5 ± 16.6 ka. Well preserved fluvial cycles and 35 m of thickness suggest the intensive accumulation of the Błądzikowo Formation with decreasing ratio of lateral erosion. It suggests an increasing influence of base level rise on evolution of fluvial system, mostly during MIS 7. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper presents the results of palinological studies of the sediments from the site of Szklarka (Silesian Lowland, SW Poland). The pollen sequence from Szklarka records the longest continuous succession of vegetation covering the Late Saalian, Eemian Interglacial and Early Weichselian in SW Poland. The results of pollen analysis show phases with forest and open vegetation communities in response to climate changes. The pollen zones distinquished represent cool phases of the Late Saalian, a complete Eemian interglacial succession (E1-E7 R PAZ) and two cool intervals (Herning and Redestall) and one warm one (Brörup) from the Early Weichselian. Two main phases have been distinguished in the Brørup Interstadial, an older birch phase and a younger pine phase. During the Brørup Interstadial, towards the end of the birch phase, a cooling event has been recorded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper presents vegetation and climate reconstructions for Eemian Interglacial in Pomerian Lakeland based on detailed pollen data of the Buntowo site. The pollen succession from the depth of 30.60–30.50 m comprises the end of the Late Saalian with the development of open grass communities and shrub communities. The vegetation picture obtained confirms the significant role of Hippophaë rhamnoides in shrub communities in northern Poland around the beginning of the Eemian Interglacial. The pollen succession from the depth of 30.45–25.40 m comprises the Eemian Interglacial from E-1 R PAZ to the beginning of E-6 R PAZ. In northern Poland, Ulmus became a significant component of forest communities as late as in Middle Eemian. Continuous presence of Taxus baccata over the entire Middle Eemian and higher significance of Picea abies in forest communities of the younger period of Middle Eemian confirm the higher influence of oceanic climate than in Central and Eastern Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the paper is to present general characteristics of the climate in Poland during the Vistulian (Weichselian), expressed by changes of its continentality during warm and cold intervals. This last glacial stage in Poland is commonly subdivided into Early Vistulian (MIS 5d-a), Lower Plenivistulian (MIS 4), Interplenivistulian (MIS 3), and Upper Plenivistulian and Late Vistulian (MIS 2). Main climatic features of this glacial stage could be reconstructed, based on compilation from published data concerning characteristics of glacial, fluvial and aeolian sedimentary environments, geomorphology, analysis of indicator plant species, Coleoptera, and geographical distribution of periglacial structures. These data were indicative especially for evaluation of mean temperature of the warmest and the coldest months but could be also helpful in determination of drier intervals and some aspects of general atmospheric circulation. Paleoclimatic characteristics of the last glacial stage from the territory of Poland were put into the European context. During the Early Vistulian in eastern Poland, higher continentality was characteristic for interstadials (Amersfoort, Brörup and Odderade), and was considerably lower during the intervening colder stadials (Herning, a cooling between Amersfoort and Brörup, Rederstall). Among the interstadials, the most continental climate occurred during Brörup (similar continentality as at present), considerably less during Amersfoort and the least during Odderade. A decreasing trend of continentality for the cold stadials of the Early Weichselian eastwards in Europe could result from a remarkably less dynamic Gulf Stream in the North Atlantic when the ocean was covered with vast sea ice during winters, whereas the adjoining continent was occupied by permafrost, and the atmospheric circulation was presumably driven also by the Scandinavian ice sheet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although debris, loams and clays are usually regarded as typical cave sediments, loess and loess-like sediments are common among clastic cave deposits in the near-entrance facies of caves and rock shelters. Late Weichselian loess layers are very common in caves from the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland and were recognized in almost each excavated cave and rock shelter. These layers were initially dated to the LGM (Last Glacial Maximum), but new chronometric dating results are available that allow us to present a more detailed scheme of the geological age of the series. This paper evaluates the significance of Polish in-cave loess layers as correlative horizons. We present the lateral and vertical stratigraphy and lithological variability of cave loesses and their usefulness as lithostratigraphic markers. These features are especially important for archeology and paleontology, as cave sediments, including loess, are usually the carriers of archeological and paleontological material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents reconstruction of lake/mire vegetation changes recorded in a continuous profile, which spans the Late Pleniglacial and Late Glacial in south-eastern Poland. This is done on the basis of pollen, non-pollen palynomorphs (NPPs), plant macrofossils and diatom evidence. Initially, a small eutrophic lake, which originated and developed through permafrost thawing, existed at the site from ca. 14,910 cal. BP. The lake was characterized by mass algae blooms and wide taxonomic diversity of Potamogeton representatives. The succession of submersed macrophytes started with the appearance of Characeae and ranged from communities composed of taxa preferring alkaline conditions and the thin organic layer at the bottom, such as Potamogeton filiformis and Potamogeton praelongus , to those requiring alkaline-neutral waters with a thick organic layer (e.g. Potamogeton alpinus , Potamogeton friesii , Potamogeton obtusifolius and Potamogeton pectinatus ). Despite the alkaline pH of water in the lake, there were also suitable niches for Nuphar pumila , a taxon associated with acidic waters. About 13,730 cal. BP a rich fen developed within the lake basin where Carex was prevalent, with more oligotrophic patches being occupied by Sphagnum mosses. The water table of this mire fluctuated, which is visible in the irregular occurrences of NPPs suited to an aquatic environment. The local vegetation points to slightly alkaline conditions on the fen. An eutrophic water body reappeared ca. 12,700 cal. BP and was functioning at least until ca. 11,620 cal. BP. This alteration of palaeoecosystem created niches for Ranunculus sceleratus in the shoreline section of the water body. The algae content and Potamogeton diversity was significantly smaller than in the water body that had existed there during the Late Pleniglacial and early Late Glacial. The succession of submersed macrophytes was the reverse of that of the initial water body. Taxa preferring more neutral-acidic conditions, such as P. alpinus , appeared at the onset of the renewed lake. Together with the accumulation of a layer of calcareous-detritus gyttja there was the spread of more ‘alkaline’ taxa, such as P. pectinatus and Myriophyllum spicatum . The present study revealed a lack of diatoms in the deposits along the entire length of the profile. In the case of peat section it stems from limited niches for their occurrence in fen habitats and their consequent low concentrations in peat deposits. However, the problem of the diatoms' absence in lacustrine sediments remains unsolved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of three elephant species ( Mammuthus trogontherii, Elephas (Palaeoloxodon) antiquus , and Mammuthus primigenius ) among fossil mammal assemblages from the Pleistocene has been established in Poland. The most abundant species in these finds is Mammuthus primigenius . Most fossil elephant remains have been provided by research from the 19th and 20th centuries, though there are more recent results from new localities. Recently obtained radiocarbon dates not only extend the existing data, but in two cases (32,641 ± 367 cal. BP and 32,568 ± 356 cal. BP) also reveal the presence of mammoths in a time interval during which they were previously thought to have been absent from Poland. This allows us to shift the gap in the mammoths' occurrence in Poland from 32.0 to 32.6 cal. ka BP. This paper is intended to present the current state of knowledge concerning the diversity of elephants and their geographical and temporal variability in Poland in the Pleistocene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the legacy of Edward Feliks Lubicz-Niezabitowski, a Polish scientist, biologist, zoologist, and physician who, over 20 years, collected and studied the Pleistocene and Holocene mammals found at various sites in Poland. A synopsis of his achievements in this regard is presented here for the first time, and covers representatives of Elephantidae, Rhinocerotidae, Cervidae, Bovidae, Equidae, Carnivora, and Rodentia, dealing with the locality and context of the finds, as well as the specific elements they represent. Although it is difficult to evaluate how many specimens of those specified by Lubicz-Niezabitowski are preserved to this day, and to what extent, the collected data can be used for synthetic works concerning diversity and occurrence of Pleistocene mammals in Europe, with reference to Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The palaeogeography of the mid-Warta River valley in the Koło Basin in the Alleröd and Younger Dryas periods is well recognised. Record of subfossil trees is evidence of the existence of the riparian pine-birch forest in the valley floor in the Alleröd/Younger Dryas transition and in the early Younger Dryas. In the late Younger Dryas, the flood activity increased, which resulted in covering the valley floor with a thick layer of sandy and silty sandy overbank alluvia. Traces of settlement of people of only one archaeological culture dated to the Late Palaeolithic are recorded in the Koło Basin – i.e. the Tanged Point Complex, called in Polish territories the Sviderian Culture. The sites are camp sites remnants of hunter–gathering groups of the Alleröd and the Younger Dryas. Most sites are situated on dunes, cover sands or edges and slopes of river terraces. This paper focuses on the settlement pattern and the raw material distribution which indicate a highly mobile life-style and significance of human contacts in the Younger Dryas. In the relatively stable environmental conditions of the late Alleröd and in the very beginning of Younger Dryas, when the area was covered by forest, the first Tanged Point Complex communities arrived. The forest landscape was rich in natural resources and suitable for hunting. Later in the Younger Dryas, a climatic change caused the increase of floods, permafrost reactivation and riparian forest extinction. Human groups moved away from the area. The occurrence of exotic raw material confirms migration of hunter groups in the late Younger Dryas in the latitudinal direction. Camp sites were situated on more elevated inland surfaces of terraces and dunes. Most probably at the end of the Younger Dryas, Sviderian hunters migrated from the Koło Basin and followed the herds of animals far north. After the stabilization of environmental conditions, hunters came back to the Koło Basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of morphometric, isotopic, and dental cementum analysis of reindeer remains from Upper Palaeolithic cave deposits in Poland. Morphometric analyses indicate the variability of population. Most of the antlers belonged to females and represented a tundra form of reindeer. Analysis of dentition also indicated adaptation to life in tundra. Dental cementum analysis of reindeer teeth from Biśnik Cave showed that death of all studied specimens occurred during cold periods. Results of stable isotopes analysis of reindeer teeth from Biśnik Cave revealed that the δ 18 O C values were more related to the anatomical position of the tooth than to geochronological period. Isotopic differences between tooth types indicate the importance of weaning and weather in particular seasons when tooth enamel was formed. Teeth exhibit no significant change in δ 13 C C values between reindeer from MIS 2 and MIS 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies on the Gravettian in Central Europe did not pay much attention to the issue of the marginal areas' occupation, because the main research interest was placed on analysis of remains from the area of classic refugia, the middle Danube valley or southern Moravia. Consequently, little is known about the mechanisms associated with occupation of areas located to the north of the Carpathians and the Sudetes, both in terms of chronology as well as system of mobility. The results of excavations at the open-air site in Henryków (SW Poland), presented in this paper, indicate that attempts of exploitation of upland territories located to the north of the mountain chains, started very early, i.e. in the so-called Early Gravettian period. This is indicated by radiocarbon dating of charcoal samples (28.5–31.5 ka BP) from the site. These dates were confirmed by dating of mineral deposits using the OSL method (ca. 29 ka). Based on geoarchaeological studies, the period of human stay at the Henryków site plausibly associated with development of the soil complex of the Komorniki (L1S1, Stillfried B/Lohner Boden type). Archaeological data indicate that the stay was linked with hunting practices. The features of the Henryków site, typical for marginal occupation, suggest that during the visit tool kits were reconstructed, stocks were replenished and fire was used. The dataset suggests that traces from Henryków should be treated as a result of pioneering expeditions. This mobility probably never had a more stable character, as in the later period of the Gravettian complex development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper presents the results of multi-proxy research (pollen, plant macrofossil, testate amoebae and bulk density) on a 100-cm core collected from a Baltic raised bog in N Poland. The impact of the variability of the climate as well as human disturbance in the last 650 years on the development of the peat bog Kusowskie Bagno is described. Based on the results, the development of the raised bogs to the south of the southern coast of the Baltic Sea during the Little Ice Age occurred differently than in NW Europe. In NW Europe (e.g., Great Britain, Ireland, Denmark and N Germany) during the periods of climate cooling associated with lower solar activity, there was a characteristic wet phase, whereas N Poland was characterised by a dry phase. In the years AD 1450–1500, AD 1640–1720 and AD 1810–1840, which correlate with the periods of lower solar activity (the Spörer, Maunder and Dalton minima) and the periods of lower temperatures in Europe, the water table in Kusowskie Bagno decreased, and this was followed by changes in the vegetation. The largest drop in the water table occurred in the years AD 1640–1720. The dry phase resulted in the reduction of the population of Archerella flavum and Amphitrema wrightianum, which are organisms that are typical of wet habitats, and the appearance of, e.g., Arcella artocrea and Phryganella acropodia, which are indicators of dry habitats. The humidity decline halted the growth of Sphagnum sec. Cuspidata (Sph. cuspidatum and Sph. balticum) and Sphagnum magellanicum. At the same time, Eriophorum vaginatum, Baeothryon caespitosum and Pinus sylvestris appeared, and a dramatic increase in the bulk density is also observed. Since AD 1720, when the solar activity and the water table increased, the bog regenerated, and the population of Sphagnum fuscum/capillifolium developed. The development of the studied raised bog depended mainly on climate change. The increasing human impact in the area, which started in approximately AD 1320 and lasted for several centuries, was manifested in deforestation and in the increase in the surface area of farmland. However, this result did not have a significant impact on the development of the peat bog. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents a history of the vegetation in Lake Purwin (NE Poland) and its catchment along with water level changes for the last 8600 cal. BP. The reconstructions are based on a high-resolution plant macroremains analysis and the stable isotope record in authigenic carbonates, a fine fraction that is precipitated within the epilimnion of the lake. The stable isotope records suggest that the lake had throughflow during the Holocene and that isotope data can therefore be used in palaeoclimatic reconstructions. The δ18O values record the thermal maximum of the Holocene and the subsequent cooling of the upper Holocene. Water level changes and the history of the lake's productivity are both recorded in the δ13C values. A chronology is established using radiocarbon dating of terrestrial plant macrofossils. The vegetation and water levels in Lake Purwin reflect regional climate changes. The combination of the lithology along the sedimentary sequence, the results of the plant macroremains analysis and the isotope data allowed several alternating periods of high (8600–7300, 6500–5200, 4400–3500, and 3000–950 cal. BP) and low (7300–6500, 5200–4400, 3500–3000 and 950 to −59 cal. BP) water stands to be distinguished in Lake Purwin. Low water levels are indicated by sediments that are enriched in coarse plant detritus, seeds of Rubus ideaus, fruits of Uritca dioica and more macroremains of Alnus glutinosa and rushes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In 1981 and 1991, mammoth remains and associated fauna were found in central Poland, at the Bełchatów opencast mine in sandy gravel deposits. Most of them lay at approximately 160–175 m above mean sea level (a.s.l.), located in the lower and upper members of the alluvial Chojny Formation. This formation belongs to the Middle Pleistocene, and can be connected with the Mazovian (MIS-11, Holsteinian) or Zbójnian (MIS-9, Reinsdorf) Interglacial. The Bełchatów mammoth assemblage described here consists of cranial and postcranial elements. Analysis of their morphological characteristics and osteometrics are used to demonstrate that at least two molars and one tusk belong to Mammuthus trogontherii and that the tusk belonged to a male. On the basis of the minimum number of elements of the most common element (left incisors), the mammoth remains represent at least two individuals. Based upon the different ages of death for the various elements, it appears that they represent several individuals. The bulk of the mammoth remains were recovered from the oldest depositional cycle in the lower member of Chojny Formation, and are therefore coincident with a shrub tundra environment and cool temperate conditions. They were deposited in sediments formed by a meandering river with a fairly low power of flow, and were buried soon after transport over a short distance. This conclusion is also supported by the palaeobotanical data. An additional element, a costa, was recovered from the upper member of the Chojny Formation, which is associated with the cooling conditions. The enveloping deposit appears to be the result of a series of more rapid discharge events by a braided river. This element is distinguished from those elements recovered from the lower member due to the presence of a series of unusual striations. SEM analysis suggests that some of the striations were probably made by chipped stone tools used in a slicing action, as if the result of the filleting of flesh from the rib area. The time frame for the depositional context of the costa suggests that the striations may have been made by one of several possible human taxa that occurred in central Europe during this period, including Homo heidelbergensis. Given the dearth of human skeletal remains from this region and time period, this represents the earliest and only example of Middle Pleistocene human butchering activity in Poland. The remains discussed in this paper are presented in light of their depositional and cultural contexts, which not only increases our knowledge of the occurrence of M. trogontherii in Poland, but also provides increased evidence for Lower Palaeolithic human activity in central Europe during an early interglacial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Results of research on Neo-Holocene slope covers uncovered at archaeological sites in Central Poland are described in this paper. Geoarchaeological investigations have been undertaken in the Ner River basin. Distinctive archaeological relicts of human activity document periods of intensive activity of human societies. Artefacts included within deposits play a very important role in correct recognition of the chronology of covers and ecofacts for reconstructions of environmental evolution. The origin and development of slope covers have been correlated with anthropogenic changes of the natural environment. Two main phases of acceleration of slope processes have been recognised, dated to the Middle Bronze Age and to the Late Roman Period. Slope deposits have been classified as deluvia (deluvial, slope wash deposits or colluvial deposits). Their features are most typical for “deluvial sands” and, if they contain more humic matter, for “soil deluvia”. The deluvial covers have been deposited as an effect of moderately intensive slope wash processes. Accumulation of slope deposits has resulted from natural processes initiated by human impact during periods of intensive settlement and economic activity. The slope cover sediments are the source for recognition of intensity of human impact and of economic activity of ancient societies, and for distinct phases of hiatuses of settlement development. The possibility of archaeological and palaeogeographical interpretations based on research on slope covers at archaeological sites is presented. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The goal of this paper is to present the new records on chronology and settlement dynamics in the area situated north of the Carpathians and Sudeten between MIS-3 and GI-1. The focus is on records representing Middle Palaeolithic and so-called transitional industries (Early Upper Palaeolithic), as well late Upper Palaeolithic. Studies are based on longer series of numerical data obtained during recent field work and an examination of old museum collections. These attempts differ from the previous approaches in which the main attention was put on the comparison of stratigraphical and archaeological data, rarely relating to the chronometric records. In the beginning of MIS-3, no settlement hiatus took place in this area. It appears that the classic late Middle Palaeolithic industries had no direct influence on the appearance of the transitional industries and that in the same period different industries could co-exist. There are no convincing arguments indicating a connection between the youngest transitional units and the Upper Palaeolithic industries. Studies on settlement dynamics during the last glaciation maximum (ca. 19,000–17,000 BP) have led to the acceptance of the previous concept emphasizing its unstable character. The sites with more numerous artefacts connected with the Magdalenian tradition and the Epigravettian come from the end of that period. The beginning of Magdalenian settlement on Polish territory took place at the turn of GS-2c and GS-2b, ca. 18,500–17,500 BP. More numerous Magdalenian camps started to appear in GS-2a, ca. 16,500–14,500 BP. The late dates of Magdalenian camps (GI-1c-1a) may be caused by the contamination of the samples, but it cannot be also excluded that the Magdalenian style of life survived in some southern regions of Poland until the Allerød. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Loess sediments have proved to be the most significant palaeoclimatic and palaeoenvironmental archives on land and thus present an important part of the Earth''s geodiversity. Apart from their scientific values, loess areas could be developed for geotourism. However, before this development can occur, several other initiatives must be initiated and completed; these include for geosites: their scientific investigation and inventorying; their statutory protection and active geoconservation; the development of didactic and promotional activities. This paper presents an overview of the loess deposits of Poland as a precursor to a consideration of their protection, conservation and development for geotourism. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Between 50,000 and 20,000 years ago, Europe experienced a series of rapid climate change events known as the Dansgaard–Oeschger cycles, which may have made areas of northern Europe more attractive for occupation by early modern humans at certain times than at others. This paper investigates when humans were occupying northern Europe in relation to these climatic changes at the archaeological site of Kraków Spadzista Street (B), by applying oxygen isotope analysis of mammoth tooth enamel carbonates (δ18O and δ13C) found at the site. The new isotopic data suggest that mean annual temperatures at Kraków Spadzista were 4–9 C° colder than present and, based on comparisons with previously published isotopic data for mammoth in Europe, the Kraków assemblage most likely formed during a cold Dansgaard–Oeschger event. This suggests modern humans were able to occupy and survive in this area of northern Europe during the harsh cold phases that affected Europe at this time. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The archaeological site in Klementowice is the north-easternmost settlement point of the Magdalenian technocomplex in Europe. The paper presents the results of geoarchaeological investigations focused on recognition, identification, and interpretation of environmental determinants of the site location. The specific and favourable geographical position of the site in the Late Glacial is distinctly visible at the macroregional scale (at the border of contrasting megaregions – highlands/lowlands with different environmental conditions) as well as the microregional scale (specific local conditions). The site has been known since the early 1980s. In 2007, excavations were resumed and a new, previously unknown concentration of artefacts was discovered. The flint inventory from the site exhibits close analogies with the areas of Moravia and Central Germany. The new data from several thousands of flint artefacts and first discovery of faunal remains (Equus ferus) indicate that there was multi-seasonal hunting camp in this area. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper discusses the late Magdalenian settlement in Poland. These areas constitute a peripheral zone of the settlement of this technocomplex, at its north-eastern range. Most sites are small, briefly-occupied camps, although larger, longer occupied sites are also known, as well as workshops. Radiocarbon dating indicates that the late Magdalenian settlement encompasses a long period, from GS-2 until perhaps GI 1c-a. The lithic assemblages are varied but their characteristics are not dependent on the chronology. Bone assemblages as well as mobile art objects are known from a very few sites and are represented by single specimens. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper presents a fresh examination of a pollen profile from Ustków (central Poland), which after preliminary results was thought to span a period between the Early Eemian (MIS 5e) and the upper Pleni-Weichselian (MIS 3). The newly obtained results confirmed the age assessment of the bottom series, but revealed a much older age for the uppermost part of the profile as far back as the Rederstall stadial (MIS 5b). Palynological research showed slightly different patterns of vegetation in comparison to other sites located in Central Europe. Among them were an early Ulmus maximum coinciding with the Betula optimum in the Early Eemian, a relatively late optimum of Taxus baccata during the decline of the Middle Eemian, and a distinct division of the older part of the Late Eemian into phases of Abies-Picea and Picea-Pinus forest domination. The Herning stadial (MIS 5d) falls into a typical bipartition reflected by heathland domination during its older part and the prevalence of Juniperus thickets and Artemisia-Poaceae steppe during its younger part, which makes this succession similar to those from northern Germany. The pollen spectra reflecting the Brørup interstadial (MIS 5c) distinctly revealed an intra-Brørup cold oscillation rarely detected in profiles from Central Europe and a period of Larix dominated forests during the latest part of the interstadial (extraordinarily high percentages exceeding 15% of the total pollen sum). Local pollen taxa, together with the lithological composition of deposits, revealed that there was a water body in the area during the periods of the Late Saalian/Early Eemian transition–Middle Eemian (the decline of the Tilia phase), the Herning stadial (MIS 5d), the early Brørup interstadial (MIS 5c), and the Rederstall stadial (MIS 5b). Between these time-intervals a poor and/or rich fen and/or bog functioned. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In Central Europe, a major gap in the radiocarbon chronology of Mammuthus primigenius has resulted from the absence of dated records in most of the area north of the Sudetes and Carpathian mountains. This paper presents almost 60 directly dated mammoth remains, based both on new research and published sources from the whole of Poland. The dates, ranging from ca. 54 to 15 cal. ka BP (51.8–12.6 ka BP), are correlated with Marine Isotope Stage 3 (MIS 3) and MIS 2 of the Late Pleistocene. The mammoth was able to colonise this region at least three to four times. The number of mammoths was probably reduced during the middle of MIS 3, between ca. 43.2 cal. ka BP (39.0 ka BP) and 40.6 cal. ka BP (35.9 ka BP), as well as between ca. 34.8 cal. ka BP (30.5 ka BP) and 32.1 cal. ka BP (27.4 ka BP). Also, at the beginning of MIS 2 ca. 27.5 cal. ka. BP (ca. 22.8 ka BP) woolly mammoth probably became very rare in the studied area until ca. 24 cal. ka BP (ca. 20.2 ka BP), the beginning of H2 cold event. In the middle of MIS 2, between ca. 24.1 cal. ka BP to ca. 18.3 cal. ka BP (ca. 20.2 ka BP to ca. 14.6 ka BP), Mammuthus withdrew from Poland entirely. From ca. 18.3 cal. ka BP (ca. 14.6 ka BP) to 15.0 cal. ka BP (12.6 ka BP) the mammoth reoccupied part of its former range, the south-eastern part of Poland (Lublin Upland) and the easternmost part of Sudetes foothills and the upper Odra river valley. The marked loss of open habitats at the beginning of the Lateglacial Interstadial was followed by the retreat and extinction of M. primigenius in southern Poland around 15.0 cal. ka BP (12.6 ka BP). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: At the end of the Pleistocene in Central-Eastern Europe, the accumulation of periglacial loess had already finished. From the end of loess accumulation to the establishment of grass cover and forest succession in this area, a phase of active modeling of the land surface by slope processes occurred. Before the beginning of the Holocene, this activity stopped and mollisol and alfisol formation started. These soils are preserved beneath Holocene colluvia. Until the Neolithic age, the area of loess formations in Poland was uninhabited. The extensive Neolithic agriculture locally induced soil erosion, causing slopewash on farmedslopes. The scale of this process and establishing the age of the successive stages of the prehistoric soil erosion in loess deposits in Poland is a key problem in the investigations of the human–environment relationship in prehistory. Chronostratigraphy of the preserved Holocene colluvia is very helpful in the solution of these problems. Optical (OSL) dating was applied in chronostratigraphical analyses. Due to expected partial bleaching during sediment transport, a single-aliquot regenerative dose protocol (SAR) was applied. Insufficient bleaching during transport on the slope is expected to be a serious problem for luminescence dating of loess colluvia, and causes overestimation of the OSL age. Quartz from the study site was suitable for age determination by SAR. The youngest 50-year old colluvia were also studied using the 137Cs method. The reliability of the obtained results is discussed in this paper, as well as the influence of environmental processes and type of the applied methods on chronological assignments. The precise age determination of loess colluvia is important for study of the human impact on the environment. The results of OSL dating show that soil erosion started in the Neolithic, with three phases of soil erosion: Neolithic, Middle Ages, and modern. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The article presents the results of a multi-proxy study on sediments of Lake Słone (Chełm Hills) located in the northern peripheral area of the Lublin Upland (SE Poland). The area remained in the periglacial zone (with permafrost present in the geological substrate) during the last glaciation. This paper represents an attempt to determine the directions and intensity of changes in environmental conditions during the Late Glacial. It also attempts to reconstruct lake development conditions within the area unaffected by the extent of the ice sheet. The aim of the study was to investigate bottom sections of two sediment profiles representing the period of Late Glacial lake-mire sedimentation occurring in varying thermal and humidity conditions. Conditions were indicated by lithological variations in the sediments and the content of micro and macrofossils. The latter were identified based on palynological and malacological analyses, as well as by subfossil Ostracoda and Cladocera analysis. The chronology of the identified paleoenvironmental changes was determined based on the results of paleobotanical analysis in correlation with radiocarbon dating (conventional and AMS) of the selected sediment layers. The results were compared to other sites from north-central Europe and to the well-dated laminated sediments sequences from the nearest Late Glacial site at Perespilno. It was estimated that the development of Lake Słone probably had its origin in the Older Dryas. The development of the lake basin, in turn, is associated with specific processes of disappearance of permafrost in the Upper Cretaceous bedrock. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Commonly applied methods such as pollen analysis, charcoal analysis, and archaeological studies make it possible to reconstruct the trend of changes in vegetation during the Holocene and determine the role of humans in its transformation. However, it is not always possible to obtain a complete picture of changes which took place in the past and the reasons for their occurrence. This paper presents the results of molecular investigations of lacustrine sediments from Lake Miłkowskie, aimed at confirming human presence in the vicinity of the lake and its correlation with the palynological and archaeological data. The molecular analyses were based on identification of ancient DNA (aDNA) of faecal bacteria, as indicators of human and cattle presence. Application of comprehensive studies comprising both palaeoenvironmental and molecular methods allowed a detailed determination of the stages of human presence in the vicinity of the lake and confirms the anthropogenic impact on the changes of local plant communities. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]