The faunal remains of the middle Pleistocene travertines of Stuttgart-Bad-Cannstatt, south Germany

The function of the Holsteinian period Cannstatter Bunker site is discussed, based on large mammals remains. Comparison with several other Holsteinian faunas shows a clear selection of the osteological material. The inhabitants of the site were specialized hunters. Aurochs and steppe bisons were their favourite preys. The red deer was an important nutrional complement. The analysis of the frequencies of skeletal elements indicates that animals were butchered outside of the site. Only the rich meaty parts were brought back. We note also that deer antlers were usedfor artefacts. The Cannstatter Bunker site seems therefore to have been used as a central halt station.