Palaeoenvironment and morphodynamics in the mid-Medjerda floodplain (northern Tunisia) between 12 000 and 2000 BP: geoarchaeological and geomorphological findings

Geoarchaeological and geomorphological investigations in the mid-Medjerda Valley near the archaeological site of Chemtou (northern Tunisia) provide evidence for environmental change from 12 000–2000 BP. Late Pleistocene and early Holocene conditions are elucidated through the analysis of the Epipalaeolithic cultural layer (Ibéromaurisian culture, c . 12 000 BP), which is situated on a well-developed, rubified palaeosol. Analysis of charcoal remains from this palaeosol suggests that climatic conditions during this time were similar to the present. During the peak of the Roman period, stable environmental conditions are suggested, despite the intensive agrarian regime. During the post-Roman period, evidence suggests more active morphodynamics and an increase in flooding.