Raw material exploitation strategies on the flint mining site of Spiennes (Hainaut, Belgium)

The Neolithic flint mines at Spiennes (Mons, Belgium) represent one of Europe's most extensive and long-lasting mining operations, spanning from 4350 to 2300 BCE. This study reveals that the site's longevity was enabled by its rich flint resources, favorable geography, and sophisticated mining strategies, which evolved over time. Analysis of stratigraphic evidence and flint production suggests variability in both synchronic and diachronic mining techniques, particularly for standardized axeheads and blades. The research also proposes a hypothesis linking the seasonality of mining activities to the permanent settlement of Michelsberg populations, who combined farming with specialized mining and knapping. Group specialization, social control of resources, and century-old traditions likely sustained Spiennes' dominance in the Mons Basin's raw material supply for centuries.

Collet, H., Lavachery, P., & Woodbury, M. (2016). Raw material exploitation strategies on the flint mining site of Spiennes (Hainaut, Belgium). Journal of Lithic Studies, 3(2), 127–162. https://doi.org/10.2218/jls.v3i2.1821