FROM LAUGERIE-BASSE TO JOLIVET - THE ORGANIZATION OF FINAL MAGDALENIAN SETTLEMENT IN THE VEZERE VALLEY

This paper presents results of recent analysis of settlement patterns in the Vezere valley (Dordogne, France). Concentrating on the Final Ma gdalenian, it shows that patterning observed is a function not only of the topographic setting of sites but also of their socioeconomic cont ext. Adoption of the Rank Size Rule as an analytical tool highlights t he potential relationship between sites which, on initial examination, appear to be unrelated. It allows us, on the basis of size, to divide sites into three main categories: large, medium and small, each of wh ich was important to the Magdalenian hunter. When associated assemblag e data (faunal, lithic, etc.) are considered some indication of the ro le of these sites is obtained.