Climate variations in the Circum-Alpine region and their influence on Neolithic-Bronze Age lacustrine communities: Displacement and/or cultural adaptation

Abstract

Because of its delicate balance, the hydrological system of the Alpine region is affected immediately by climatic variations. The most obvious evidence of hydrologic instability is reflected by natural water basins in particular rivers and lakes. Caused by climate change, but catalyzed by a myriad of environmental factors, the water levels of lakes and other natural water reservoirs fluctuate, influencing people who live in their proximity. In some cases, the irregular pattern of human occupation around prehistoric Circum-Alpine lakes shows a remarkable affinity to climatic oscillations. People's responses to environmental influence are nevertheless unpredictable, and sometimes illogical.