Animal remains from Schloss Prösels (Bozen/Bolzano, Italy, 16th -17th century)

Th e site of Castel Prösels is located near Fiè (Bolzano, Italy). About 1800 specimens of macro and micro mammals, birds, amphibians and fi shes have been identifi ed. Th ey date from the second half of the 16th century to the fi rst half of the 17th century. Th e sample is mainly composed of food refuses, associated with other carcasses and rare intrusive species. Th e death assemblage is mostly represented by domestic ungulates and other subordinated taxa (domestic poultry, domestic goose, game birds and mammals). Domestic mammals devoid of alimentary relevance and fi shes are very scarce. Butchering signs and the relative frequency of skeletal parts testify a diff erent behaviour on the carcasses of diff erent species, and some evidence probably confi rm the interest in the horny tissues for manufacturing activities. Diet has been varied, and the game consumption testifi es the high social status of the castle residents. Th e presence of some game animals should be explained by hawking activities. Th anks to some analyses both on archaeological and modern materials, strong similarities between sheep remains and the modern alpine “Steinschaf ” breed have been identified.