Prehistoric Settlement Patterns in the Senqunyane Valley, Lesotho

Abstract

Distributions of fifty-four archaeological and rock art sites from south-central Lesotho suggest that MSA, LSA and Iron Age settlement patterns reflect differing adaptations. A less mobile, radiating settlement pattern is inferred for the MSA; LSA settlement patterns suggest a more mobile, rotating settlement system, and settled herder-farmer villages mark Iron Age sites. A dichotomy between Iron Age and LSA painting locations is suggested which reflects the public or the secluded context of ritual painting in the respective societies.