The “Total Archaeology Project” and the Mesolithic occupation of the highland district of San Vito di Cadore (Belluno, N-E Italy)

Mesolithic lithic scatters were identified in the highland district of San Vito di Cadore (1800-2700 m a.s.l.) since the late 1970s, mostly enhanced by the discovery of the site of Mondeval de Sora. From al survey project was developed in this territory, focusing on the area between Passo Giau and Col de la Puina. A “total archaeology approach” enabled different types of archaeological evidence to be recorded. In this paper the Mesolithic assemblages are presented. Both previously identified and newly recognised find-spots were positioned, described and spatially analysed in connection to the topography of the investigated territory, in order to provide insights on the settlement strategies adopted by the Mesolithic groups in this area.