Versatility as a cultural niche: palynological evidence on Iron Age and medieval land use on the Åland Islands

The quantitative archaeological record of the Åland Islands (Finland) indicates a population boom in mid-sixth century CE. Yet number palynological investigations on is limited, resulting knowledge gap anthropogenic landscape modification generated by land use that followed increased population. This article presents results pollen analysis from Lake Lavsböle Träsk central Åland, covering period end Bronze Age into modern period. this study provide evidence continuous throughout Iron and medieval period, during sixth CE indicated signal. Altogether we argue for an economy based cereal cultivation, animal husbandry, maritime resource utilization (e.g. seal hunting, fishing, fowling) as well trading. indicate society able to manage risks connected their subsistence strategies, which versatility seems have had key role.