The micro-archaeological study of Neanderthal fires provides exceptional insight into the behavior and activities carried out by these populations. We present the micromorphological results of level VIII of Cova Negra (X & agrave;tiva, Spain), which is attributed, based on its dates, to MIS 7. Large areas of combustion were recorded, featuring important accumulations of ash and rubefied surfaces, with very few charred residues and sparse archaeological material. Micromorphological analysis enabled us to establish patterns of repeated combustion events and identify the type of fuel used. We identified fuels from substrate residues (animal excrement and plant remains) and, in other cases, more selectively chosen plant fuels. In one of the episodes, the action of fire enabled the preservation and identification of plant remains, which were predominantly grasses possibly deposited in the form of bedding. Furthermore, the data obtained allowed us to identify periods of cave abandonment associated with the presence of hyena coprolites. The results of this study contribute to a better understanding of the variability in fire use and occupational patterns in caves inhabited by Middle Pleistocene human groups in the Mediterranean basin of the Iberian Peninsula.

The use of lithotheques, libraries or collections of rocks is relatively recent in archaeological research in Spain. These collections have mostly been formed through isolated initiatives in different institutions, without any scientific strategy to guide their development and growth. The perspective in the last few years has changed substantially as these infrastructures are now regarded as a scientific resource of great interest and potential in research on the mobility of human groups, their contacts, interactions, and subsistence strategies throughout prehistory. However, owing to their territorial scale, the collections had not developed joint initiatives to share data on integrated digital platforms that may be consulted in accordance with a policy of open science. This article presents the first results of a thematic network that aims to solve these deficiencies in Spain. Its first action has been to gather information from thirteen lithotheques of siliceous rocks. The results allow a first diagnosis of their potential and shortcomings, as an initial step towards the development of more extensive future collaborative strategies.

The integration of archaeological and geological methodologies is an essential aspect for the study of human activity, landscape evolution, and resource procurement. This approach emphasizes the strong relationship between human activity and various geomorphological and sedimentological processes, offering valuable insights into geomorphological and paleoenvironmental evolution, as well as the adaptation of hominins to these ancient landscapes.This study focuses on the Middle Paleolithic archaeological sites of Los Aljezares and La Coca, two open-air settlements located in Aspe (Alicante) in the southeastern Iberian Peninsula. The study area is located in the NE sector of the Betic Cordillera, within an intra-mountain area currently dissected by the Vinalopó River. Both sites are linked to the Quaternary deposits of this fluvial system. Various archaeological campaigns have identified significant Middle Paleolithic lithic assemblages at these sites, but a more comprehensive understanding of their depositional context and paleoenvironmental framework requires a thorough geomorphological reconstruction.Based on detailed geomorphological and geological mapping and a sedimentological analysis, the depositional evolution of the Pleistocene sediments that contain this archaeological record has been reconstructed. The Los Aljezares and La Coca sites would form part of small and connected semi-endorheic basins with fluvio-lacustrine deposits and alluvial fans and colluvial sediments from the surrounding reliefs during the Upper Pleistocene. The fluvio-lacustrine system, now being eroded by the Vinalopó River dynamic, is consistent with a previous co-genetic highstand stage, resulting in a base level and a relief remarkably different from the nowadays landscape.It is important to note that Los Aljezares site has been excavated and studied in detail while the findings from La Coca consist of a collection from the surface without further geological or archaeological context. However, by integrating geological data (e.g. sedimentary facies or geomorphological features) in the archaeological interpretation, we can improve our understanding of the formation of La Coca site and attributing a preliminary chronology.Comparing these nearby sites highlights the challenges, but also the achievements, of integrating geological and archaeological data and the importance of collaborative efforts in the reconstruction of the landscape. Although both sites show evidence of Middle Paleolithic occupation, understanding their connections and temporal relationships is essential, as the recognition of similar stages in the basin infilling at both sites suggests a shared geological evolution.

The study of the uses of fire and of the domestic activities linked to them is necessary for a bettter understanding of the relations and behaviors of the Neanderthal groups in southern Europe during the Middle Pleistocene. The analysis of the microstratigraphy of level VIII at Cova Negra, dated between 206–255 ka which situates it in the MIS 7 interglacial complex, has enabled us to identify several distinct microfacies which present different plant compositions. Those remains that stand out have a predominance of Gramineae deposited as bedding at the top of the sequence. Between the microfacies of combustion that have been established, coprolites of carnivores have been identified, related to periods of abandonment by the human populations. The record of all these processes in level VIII at Cova Negra leads us to new approaches concerning the vision that we hold of the first Neanderthals in relation to Mediterranean Iberia. Matters such as the preparation of zones for cleaning or for resting in place perhaps formed part of the behavior of these groups of early Neanderthals.

Bipolar debitage has been documented in different chronocultural and geographical contexts. In this paper, we analyze the implications of this type of exploitation in a Middle Paleolithic context where it has rarely been recognized. The observation of the archaeological materials is combined with a geological characterization, which has made it possible to determine the qualities and original morphology of the exploited volumes. These aspects are linked to the type of exploitation carried out. These studies are also combined with experimentation, the results of which show the difficulty of identifying and evaluating this technology in the lithic assemblages.

The arrival, occupation, and disappearance of Neanderthals in the Cantabrian region is the subject of a long-running debate that continues to this day. Knowledge of the evolution of Neanderthal societies since the end of the Middle Pleistocene in the north of the Iberian Peninsula is greatly impacted by the scarcity of a good chronological framework. This absence of good data creates difficulties in evaluating the cultural adaptations of these populations to environmental changes and their historical dynamics.The Amalda III cave, surveyed in 1983-84, contains a sequence of occupations ranging from the end of MIS5 (Levallois with Mousterian points and bifaces) to the beginning of MIS3 (Vasconian). It is possible to observe substantial changes in the environmental conditions and cultural responses of Neanderthal groups that inhabited the cave. Here we present the first results of the Amalda III sequence, which is currently being excavated by an interdisciplinary team.Our objective is to test, enrich and refine the regional environmental and Neanderthal cultural framework and the transformations that took place between the MIS5 and the MIS3. These new data are compared with the information available from several Middle Paleolithic sites in the region, advancing our understanding of the behavioural adaptations of Neanderthals to different ecological and socio-cultural situations between ca. 100 and 45 kyr BP in the Eastern Cantabrian region. In this way, we will be able to deepen our interpretation of the processes of cultural change of the last groups of Neanderthals that inhabited this region.

El yacimiento del Paleolítico medio de Los Aljezares se localiza en Aspe (Alicante), en depósitos sedimentarios del Pleistoceno Superior inicial. Estos depósitos presentan abundantes conglomerados con cantos de sílex, muchos trabajados por los homininos. Este yacimiento se interpreta como una zona de ocupación corta donde se llevaron a cabo diferentes actividades como la manufactura lítica y el procesado de presas como caballos y ciervos. En este trabajo se han analizado los sílex del yacimiento y de las unidades miocenas cercanas, Calizas del Tabayal y Conglomerados del Tabayal. Se han identificado y caracterizado 6 tipologías en la unidad miocena Conglomerados del Tabayal y en el Pleistoceno, lo que indica que esta unidad habría sido la fuente de aprovisionamiento de las materias primas utilizadas por los grupos humanos paleolíticos. Por otro lado, las diferentes proporciones relativas en tipologías de sílex con señales antrópicas sugieren un uso selectivo por parte de estos homininos.

The Sant Genís Formation is located in the NE of the Iberian Peninsula (Catalonia, Spain) and is dated to the Priabonian (upper Eocene), being part of the evaporitic formations of the margin of the Ebro Basin. It is formed by a succession of sandy lutites, occasional limestone layers, marls, and local stratified gypsum and cherts, including the Sant Martí de Tous chert. The Sant Martí de Tous chert type is confirmed by its abundance at specific locations within the territory (NE Iberian Peninsula). This is an important raw material procurement area, as evidenced by the presence of this chert in the main prehistoric sites of the region (e.g., Abric Romaní) and the constant discovery of new sites in the area around the Sant Genís Formation, especially from the Neolithic period onwards (e.g., Cal Sitjo, La Guinardera Nord workshop). All these features, together with the great heterogeneity of the Cenozoic evaporitic cherts, prompted us to carry out a multi-proxy characterization for obtaining a valid criterion by which to identify this chert in the archaeological record. This very heterogeneity hampers the macroscopic characterization of archaeological cherts (e.g., at Abric Romaní), but through petrographic analysis we have been able to identify their origins and, albeit to a lesser extent, their lithostratigraphic unit of provenance within the formation. The complementary mineralogical and geochemical techniques applied in this study show that, although it is difficult to establish an exact origin, through intensive sampling and criteria such as the differential presence of Fe and Ca, some differences among the siliceous varieties within a formation can be detected.

The Mediterranean basin constitutes one of the best areas to analyse Neanderthal populations and lifestyles in South-Western Europe. In this context, new excavations conducted in the Middle Palaeolithic site of Cova del Puntal del Gat expand the information available regarding this rich region. In this study, new results are reported, including detailed studies on stratigraphy, lithic technology, anthracology, carpology, and zooarchaeology and taphonomy of macro and micromammals, with the final objective of characterizing the Neanderthals’ subsistence strategies and occupational patterns. These results are framed within a broader regional study perspective that includes MIS 5 and 4 sites. Chronostratigraphic review has enabled us to reorganize many sites that were originally included in MIS 3, towards older stages belonging to the end of MIS 4 and throughout MIS 5.

The Abrigo de la Quebrada is a Middle Palaeolithic rockshelter located in the Rambla de Ahíllas in the Iberian Range (Valencia, Spain). Archaeological work began in 2007 and was completed in 2015, reaching the rockshelter substratum and uncovering a record that spans from MIS 5 to MIS 4/3. The data from the geoarchaeological and micromorphological study of the site allow us to deduce that it was formed by alluvial contributions from the ephemeral stream, in different subenvironments varying from channel/bar to floodplain facies. These alternate with debris from different displacement processes depending on the unit, such as solifluction–gelifluction, mass displacement, and diffuse runoff. In addition, collapse episodes of the overhanging rockshelter roof influenced the pedological evolution of the record, with implications for the archaeological levels, especially in Unit G (Level IV). From a paleoenvironmental point of view, a more contrasted variability is reflected in the upper units of the site (MIS 4/3), especially in Unit G (Level IV), which, based on data, suggests temperate conditions, and in Unit H (Levels III and II) indicate cold conditions. In contrast, the lower units (MIS 5) are generally temperate, with the exception of Unit C (Level VIIIa), which reflects a colder phase.

This paper presents the geochemical and petrographic characterization, along with the macroscopic observations, of several cherts from the central region of the Mediterranean Iberia. To determine the microfacies and microtextural features, thin-section samples were analyzed using polarizing light microscopy (PLM) and scanning electron microscopy coupled with an energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer (SEM/EDX). Geochemical analyses were performed using instrumental neutron activation analyses (INAA). With the data, multivariate statistical analysis by means of hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal components analysis (PCA) was applied to the chemical variables to identify clusters among the chert samples. The results showed different geochemical features between cherts concerning major, minor, and trace elements. Archaeological samples from different sites demonstrated lithic raw material circulation and, thus, human mobility in the central region of Mediterranean Iberia during the Middle and Upper Paleolithic.

El Abric de la Ratlla del Bubo (Crevillent, Alicante) es uno de los yacimientos clave para el conocimiento del Paleolítico superior en el área central del Mediterráneo ibérico, especialmente en lo que a sus fases iniciales se refiere. El yacimiento ha sido objeto de varias intervenciones arqueológicas, tanto clandestinas como científicas. Sin embargo, hasta este trabajo, la información disponible era parcial y, en muchos casos, remitía a materiales sin referencia estratigráfica. En este estudio se exponen los resultados del análisis del material lítico, del registro vegetal y de la fauna recuperada en las campañas de 1986 a 1991. Además, se presenta una amplia serie de dataciones radiocarbónicas por AMS. A partir de toda esta información, ha sido posible establecer la secuencia de ocupación de los cuatro niveles a techo de la estratigrafía del abrigo excavados durante las campañas a estudio. Los tres niveles inferiores documentados, a partir de la tecno-tipología lítica y la cronología, han podido ser definidos y relacionados con el tecnocomplejo Gravetiense. El nivel superior carece de datación 14C y ha presentado mayor dificultad de adscripción; las características del material lítico nos llevan a relacionarlo con ocupaciones del Solútreo-gravetiense. Por otro lado, una parte fundamental del trabajo son los resultados del análisis de los restos arqueobotánicos y faunísticos que son coherentes con la propuesta secuencial y permiten comprender de forma precisa la ocupación humana de la zona, además de la utilización de los recursos durante el Gravetiense y el Solútreo-gravetiense. Uno de los resultados de mayor relevancia del trabajo es que la secuencia de ocupación planteada modifica la adscripción preliminar realizada a principios de los años noventa del siglo XX. El estudio permitirá mejorar la información disponible hasta ahora para el Paleolítico superior inicial en la fachada mediterránea ibérica y, especialmente, en su área central.

This paper presents a multi-proxy proposal based on crossreferencing different teaching strategies such as traditional class, flipped teaching and the case method in the subject of Ancient Universal Prehistory (second year) in the Degree in History at the University of Valencia whitin the framework of the METARQ Teaching Innovation Project. The learning of theoretical and practical content has been reinforced in a single evaluable activity for the practical part of the course, which consisted of different stages. The results show that 58% of the students participating in the proposed activities, improved their grades in the theoretical-practical contents of the subject. It is, therefore, a proposal with a very positive impact on student learning and performance.

The rock shelter of Ratlla del Bubo (Crevillent, Alicante) is one of the key sites for the knowledge of the Upper Palaeolithic in the central Iberian Mediterranean basin, especially regarding its initial phases. Several archaeological fieldworks has been carried out in the site, both clandestine and scientific. However, before this paper, the information available was partial and, in many cases, referred to remains without stratigraphic reference. This study presents the results of the analysis of the lithic, archaeobotanical and faunal material recovered during the 1986-1991 campaigns. In addition, we present an extensive series of AMS radiocarbon dates. On the basis of all this information, it has been possible to establish the occupational sequence of the four levels on the top of the rock shelter stratigraphy excavated during the studied campaings. The three lower levels documented, based on the lithic techno-typology and chronology, have been defined and related to the Gravettian technocomplex. The upper-level lacks 14C dating and it has been more difficult to assign; the characteristics of the lithic material lead us to link it to Solutreo-Gravettian occupations. On the other hand, a fundamental part of the paper are the results of the analysis of the archaeobotanical and faunal materials, which are coherent with the proposed sequence and allow a precise understanding of the human occupation of the area, as well as the use of resources during the Gravettian and Solutreo-Gravettian periods. One of the most relevant results of the study is that the proposed occupation sequence modifies the preliminary ascription made at the beginning of the 1990s. The study will improve the information currently available for the Early Upper Palaeolithic in the Iberian Mediterranean basin and, especially, in its central area.

ABSTRACTThe record of open‐air Middle Palaeolithic sites in the Iberian Peninsula—specifically in the Mediterranean basin—is scarce, hampering the interpretation of the landscape use strategies developed by Neanderthals in this area. In this work, we present Los Aljezares, a new Middle Palaeolithic site found in Pleistocene fluvio‐lacustrine deposits in the sedimentary basin of the Vinalopó River. A U/Th age (132 ± 10 ka) from associated carbonate deposits allows us to attribute the site to the uppermost part of the Middle Pleistocene to Late Pleistocene (marine isotope stage 6/5). To date, a total of two levels of human occupation have been identified in which the density of lithic remains is low compared with cave and rock shelter sites in the region. The first results of technology and use‐wear, raw material procurement and geological data indicate a settlement in Los Aljezares along a territory characterised by ephemeral channels and their associated palustrine and lacustrine zones. This palaeoenvironmental setting provided biotic and abiotic resources in a transit area between inland and coastal locations.

En este trabajo se presenta una propuesta multi-proxy basada en el empleo cruzado de distintas estrategias docentes como la clase tradicional, la clase inversa y el método del caso en la asignatura de Prehistoria Universal Antigua (2º curso-1er cuatrimestre) en el Grado de Historia de la Universitat de València, en el marco del Proyecto de Innovación Docente METARQ. El aprendizaje de contenidos teórico- prácticos se ha reforzado en un única actividad evaluable para la parte práctica de la asignatura y que constaba de diferentes etapas. Los resultados muestran que el desarrollo de actividades evaluables que revisan todos los contenidos teórico-prácticos puede tener un impacto muy positivo sobre el aprendizaje y el rendimiento del estudiantado.

In this paper, we present an updated technological analysis of the lithic collection excavated in the 1980s in a high-altitude site in the Ebro Basin, Peña Miel level e. This level represents one of the latest occurrences of Middle Palaeolithic technology in the Iberian Peninsula, so it is of special interest for understanding the trajectories of late Neandertals in this region. The results show the use of local lithic resources combined with few quantities of medium–long distance–transported raw materials. The technological choices in level e include a majority discoid production in quartzite and limestone, less abundant Levallois production in quartzite, limestone, lydite and flint, all of this combined with the production of macro-tools in limestone and quartzite. The objective of these productions is to obtain functional blanks, fundamentally outrepassing or pseudolevallois flakes, ready for direct use or for use after light edge configuration. These technological features are consistent with a short occupation in a remote and high-altitude area by groups that occasionally, and probably seasonally, roamed through the mountainous region where the site is located. Also, the technological features show links with the late Middle Palaeolithic of the Franco-Cantabrian region.

New excavations carried out at Cova de les Malladetes confirm and improve previous information on the archaeological sequence of this site. A total of 29 new dates allow to specify the chronology of the Aurignacian (levels XIVA–XII) and Gravettian (levels XI–VII). Furthermore, concerning the results obtained during the 1970 excavation, three new levels were identified: level XIVB, which represents a short temporal human occupation hiatus, and levels XV and XVI with some hearths and anthropic evidence, although the lithic material does not permit a cultural attribution. This paper presents data obtained from the analysis of archaeobotanical, micro- and macrofaunal assemblages and lithic and osseous industry. Results are relevant concerning the palaeoclimatic and palaeoenvironmental characterisation of the Early Upper Palaeolithic, as well as for assessing the human occupation patterns during the Gravettian and Aurignacian. Moreover, we evaluate the chronological implications of the basal levels (XIVB, XV and XVI), drawing attention to the absence of an important temporal gap between this phase and the start of the Early Upper Palaeolithic at the site. Finally, our new data extend the information provided by other sites in the Spanish Mediterranean region, allowing a more defined characterisation of the Early Upper Palaeolithic, especially regarding the Evolved Aurignacian chronology and its techno-typological structure, with the presence of Roc-de-Combe subtype Dufour bladelets.