Different mathematical-statistical methods can be used in the analysis of the spatial distribution of archaeological data.
On the one hand, we will consider Delauney-Triangulations, which connect neighbouring points of a distribution so that compact triangles are built, and on the other, we shall be looking at the use of tessellations in such an analysis. Around the points of a given distribution, polygons are formed; the junctions of the polygons are found in the zones of lowest point density.
Delauney-Triangulations of Early Neolithic settlements in the Rhineland, of the so-called Bandkeramik Culture, have shown that settlements were subjected to a standardised spacing in the landscape. Different distance-classes have been observed, uncovering different structures within the Bandkeramik settlement system. Within settlement groups, determined by triangulation, settlement hierarchies can be recognised by the evaluation of archaeological material. It is possible to distinguish big "central" settlements, and secondary settlements that were, more or less, dependent on these.
Tesselations make the possible hinterland visible, and allows us to make estimates regarding the economic necessities of individual settlements or settlement groups.
The combination of geometrically possible, geographically probable and archaeologically testable contacts is used to decipher past communication networks.
Key words: Triangulation, Tesselations, Neolithic, Rhineland, Settlements