Contributions of anthracology to the knowledge of the palaeoecological and palaeoeconomical framework of Juslibol (Zaragoza) castle in Medieval Age

The results of the wood charcoal analysis of plant macroremains contained in the walls of the Juslibol (Zaragoza) medieval castle built in Islamic period (tenth century) are presented. Analyzed samples have been recovered in fallen walls. The approach to archaeobotanical record occurs from two perspectives. On the one hand, from a palaeoecological perspective, the data show the characteristics of vegetation around this fortification composed of a typical Mediterranean climate, steppe and semi-arid species. On the other hand, we documented a high percentage of species related to arboriculture. Walnut high percentages and relative distance of its potential natural habitats, indicate a possible abundance of this tree in surrounding areas as irrigation crop. This provides palaeoecological information through use strategies of the forest environment, such as the amortization of pruning in the construction of the wall of Juslibol (Zaragoza) castle, in the context of the defense of Saraqusta against the advance Christian troops from the north, which seems to be due to economic criteria.