Living in high alpine conditions: living between ice and ores

This paper discusses the living conditions of prehistoric miners and smelters based on current research on primary copper metallurgy in the Oberhalbstein Valley (Graubünden, Switzerland). Topics discussed are the settlement history of the Oberhalbstein, local ore deposits, possible organisation of mining and smelting, econometric, technological and social factors, and the copper trade network. Particular focus is given to the discussion of metal-age settlement activity, which was almost certainly temporary and seasonal at elevations above 1400 m. Based on this, socio-economic models of the significance of Iron Age copper mining are developed.