Belgian cave entrance and rock-shelter sequences as palaeoenvironmental data recorders: the example of walou cave

TLDR: A systematic program of detailed stratigraphic recordings associated with diff erent analyses was recently undertaken in close collaboration with researchers from dif- ferent disciplines as discussed by the authors to better understand the sedimentary dynamics of these fi llings and to test their potential as recorders of Quaternary climatic variations.

Abstract: Despite abundant sites and numerous archaeological excavations, the knowledge of Belgian cave entrance and rock-shelter sequences is still poor from a geological point of view. A systematic program of detailed stratigraphic recordings associated with diff erent analyses was recently undertaken in close collaboration with researchers from dif- ferent disciplines. O e objective was to better understand the sedimentary dynamics of these fi llings and to test their potential as recorders of Quaternary climatic variations. O e microstratigraphic study of the Walou Cave sequence illustrates this approach. Several clear climatic signals were identifi ed. O e validity of these signals and the type of environment were confi rmed by palynology. Furthermore, tephrostratigraphy together with the excellent correlation with the loess sequence of Middle Belgium gave this exceptional recording a coherent chronostratigraphic context, supported by radiocarbon and thermoluminescence dates as well as archaeology and palaeontology. O ese results lead to interesting prospects for research work in this type of environment, e.g. understanding better the context of the numerous prehistoric occupations that distinguish Belgian caves.