Roman Lamprecht, Julia Haas, Gerald Hiebel

Prehistoric Copper Mining Between Hohe Salve and Hahnenkamm: First Results of Mining Archaeological Surveys in the Brixental and the Grattenbergl/Kirchbichl (North Tyrol, Austria)

Introduction

Prehistoric copper mining between hohe salve and hahnenkamm: first results of mining archaeological surveys in the brixental and the grattenbergl/kirchbichl (north tyrol, austria). Prehistoric copper mining in North Tyrol, Austria: First archaeological survey results from Brixental & Grattenbergl confirm Bronze Age activity, including smelting.

Abstract

The Brixental was an important connecting area between the Bronze and Iron Age copper mining districts of Schwaz-Brixlegg in the west and Kitzbühel-Jochberg in the east. For this reason, the mining landscape of the Brixental, which has been little researched to date, was investigated for potential prehistoric copper mines. Through literature research and the study of geodata (DEM, orthophotos) prior to the surveys carried out in 2023, a total of six core areas were defined, which were investigated for the presence of mining archaeological features and finds. During the survey, all relevant features like mining heaps (Bergbauhalden), depressions formed by open-cast mines or collapsed adits/”mining pits” (Pingen) and underground mines (untertägige Abbaue) were documented and samples were collected for radiocarbon dating. In this way, it was possible to provide evidence of prehistoric mining at three sites based on the artefacts discovered (stone tools, pottery, slag, etc.), while in the case of Götschen near Brixen im Thale it was possible to obtain radiocarbon dating for Early to Middle Bronze Age mining. In addition, various samples provided evidence of widespread mining activities in the Late Middle Ages and Early Modern Age. In these periods the Brunnalm in Kirchberg in Tirol was particularly important. Located at the western entrance to the Brixental, Grattenbergl in Kirchbichl was investigated using geophysical methods (geomagnetic measurements), revealing evidence of metallurgical activities (smelting furnace and/or roasting bed) during the allstatt period. It can therefore be concluded that copper mining was carried out in the Brixental that was similar to the well-known mining areas (Kitzbühel-Jochberg, Schwaz-Brixlegg) in the vicinity and that traces of it have been preserved to the present day.

Review

This paper presents a timely and important contribution to the study of prehistoric metallurgy in North Tyrol, focusing on the previously under-researched Brixental region. The authors effectively address their objective of investigating potential prehistoric copper mining activities in an area strategically located between two well-known Bronze and Iron Age mining districts. The methodology, encompassing initial literature and geodata analysis followed by systematic field surveys, detailed documentation of mining features, and collection of samples for radiocarbon dating, appears robust and well-conceived for a preliminary investigation. A significant strength of this work lies in the successful identification of concrete evidence for prehistoric mining at three distinct sites, thereby confirming the region's historical significance in the broader European metallurgical landscape. The radiocarbon dating results from Götschen, pinpointing Early to Middle Bronze Age activity, are particularly valuable, providing a crucial chronological anchor for future research in the Brixental. The integration of geophysical methods, specifically geomagnetic measurements at Grattenbergl, further enhances the findings by revealing evidence of associated metallurgical processes like smelting, offering a more holistic view of the ancient industry. While presenting compelling "first results," the abstract also sets the stage for exciting future research. A full publication would ideally elaborate on the nature of the "similarity" to the well-known Kitzbühel-Jochberg and Schwaz-Brixlegg mining areas, perhaps discussing technological parallels, scale of operations, or social organization. Further elucidation on the specific "allstatt period" at Grattenbergl and its precise chronological and cultural context would also benefit readers. Overall, this research represents a vital initial step in filling a geographical and chronological gap, providing a strong foundation for a more comprehensive understanding of prehistoric copper extraction and production in this pivotal Alpine region.

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