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Sex estimation of the individuals in a sample is fundamental for any bioarchaeological study to define a particular demographic assemblage or to classify isolated remains. Long bones are an excellent alternative for sex estimation when the most dimorphic anatomical parts are not preserved or are highly altered. Here we propose a set of discriminant functions and classification models to estimate the sex of prehistoric individuals using linear discriminant analysis and machine learning approaches. Different osteometric variables were taken from the humeri, ulnae, radii, femurs and tibias of a sample of 109 articulated skeletons buried in the collective tomb of Camino del Molino (Region of Murcia, SE-Spain), dated to the 3rd millennium BC. Sex was estimated based on standard anthropological methods and ancient DNA analysis of a control sample. Fifty-two discriminant functions with prediction thresholds higher than 0.8 on the ROC curve were obtained using independent (22) and combined variables (30). The best LDA models for sex prediction were those based on proximal epiphyseal widths or their combination with other variables, reaching values close to 0.98 on the ROC curve. The random forest-based model obtained an accuracy of 0.94 and confirmed the importance of epiphyseal widths in sex classification. This analysis is more comprehensive than univariate LDA, as it allows for ranking the importance of bones in sex discrimination and considers correlations between long bones rather than treating them as independent observations. In contrast, applying LDA to each bone makes it easier to predict the sex of other coeval collections that do not have such a complete sample. This work aims to overcome the scarcity of methods that can be applied to sex estimation of the large volume of isolated remains from Camino del Molino and for other Mediterranean skeletal series from the Late Prehistory with high biological affinity and that share similar environmental conditions.

Sex estimation of the individuals in a sample is fundamental for any bioarchaeological study to define a particular demographic assemblage or to classify isolated remains. Long bones are an excellent alternative for sex estimation when the most dimorphic anatomical parts are not preserved or are highly altered. Here we propose a set of discriminant functions and classification models to estimate the sex of prehistoric individuals using linear discriminant analysis and machine learning approaches. Different osteometric variables were taken from the humeri, ulnae, radii, femurs and tibias of a sample of 109 articulated skeletons buried in the collective tomb of Camino del Molino (Region of Murcia, SE-Spain), dated to the 3rd millennium BC. Sex was estimated based on standard anthropological methods and ancient DNA analysis of a control sample. Fifty-two discriminant functions with prediction thresholds higher than 0.8 on the ROC curve were obtained using independent (22) and combined variables (30). The best LDA models for sex prediction were those based on proximal epiphyseal widths or their combination with other variables, reaching values close to 0.98 on the ROC curve. The random forest-based model obtained an accuracy of 0.94 and confirmed the importance of epiphyseal widths in sex classification. This analysis is more comprehensive than univariate LDA, as it allows for ranking the importance of bones in sex discrimination and considers correlations between long bones rather than treating them as independent observations. In contrast, applying LDA to each bone makes it easier to predict the sex of other coeval collections that do not have such a complete sample. This work aims to overcome the scarcity of methods that can be applied to sex estimation of the large volume of isolated remains from Camino del Molino and for other Mediterranean skeletal series from the Late Prehistory with high biological affinity and that share similar environmental conditions.

Sex estimation of the individuals in a sample is fundamental for any bioarchaeological study to define a particular demographic assemblage or to classify isolated remains. Long bones are an excellent alternative for sex estimation when the most dimorphic anatomical parts are not preserved or are highly altered. Here we propose a set of discriminant functions and classification models to estimate the sex of prehistoric individuals using linear discriminant analysis and machine learning approaches. Different osteometric variables were taken from the humeri, ulnae, radii, femurs and tibias of a sample of 109 articulated skeletons buried in the collective tomb of Camino del Molino (Region of Murcia, SE-Spain), dated to the 3rd millennium BC. Sex was estimated based on standard anthropological methods and ancient DNA analysis of a control sample. Fifty-two discriminant functions with prediction thresholds higher than 0.8 on the ROC curve were obtained using independent (22) and combined variables (30). The best LDA models for sex prediction were those based on proximal epiphyseal widths or their combination with other variables, reaching values close to 0.98 on the ROC curve. The random forest-based model obtained an accuracy of 0.94 and confirmed the importance of epiphyseal widths in sex classification. This analysis is more comprehensive than univariate LDA, as it allows for ranking the importance of bones in sex discrimination and considers correlations between long bones rather than treating them as independent observations. In contrast, applying LDA to each bone makes it easier to predict the sex of other coeval collections that do not have such a complete sample. This work aims to overcome the scarcity of methods that can be applied to sex estimation of the large volume of isolated remains from Camino del Molino and for other Mediterranean skeletal series from the Late Prehistory with high biological affinity and that share similar environmental conditions.

The emergence of ‘standing stone’ monuments within the European Late Prehistoric landscape is considered to be associated with a pivotal human cultural transition from hunting and gathering to agriculture and permanent settlement, being the earliest monuments currently dated by radiocarbon to the 5th millennium BCE. However, many standing stones were first erected, subsequently collapsed, and then re-erected during the following three millennia. The excavation of the site of an apparently in situ statue-menhir at Cruz de Cepos in NE Portugal provided the rare opportunity in Iberian prehistory to apply radiocarbon and luminescence techniques to establish the date of construction. On the basis of the iconography, the standing stone was assigned to a sculptural tradition of north-western and western Iberia, loosely dated to the Early/Middle Bronze Age (ca. 2000/1900–1250 BCE). The optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) and dosimetry characteristics of quartz extracted from sediment samples taken from locations associated with the socket pit and surrounding backfilling deposits were examined, producing OSL single grain ages at eight locations. Comparison of the OSL and calibrated radiocarbon ages shows very good agreement, with the mid-3rd millennium BCE dates confirming original erection during the Copper Age and not a much later transformation of the monument. These encouraging results indicate that OSL has the potential to provide reliable dating of depositional processes related to the construction process and is suitable for wider application to megalithic monuments of this type.

The Morgado Superior Rock Shelter is located near the city of Tomar, in Central Portugal. This site presents important funerary contexts that according to published information encompass the Neolithic, Chalcolithic and Bronze Age. Other non-funerary uses have not yet been characterised but were briefly suggested. A faunal sample of the 1988 and 2012 interventions is analysed from a zooarchaeological and taphonomical perspective, focusing on the leporid remains that largely dominate the assemblage. Clear indicators of a human origin are absent, while a configurational approach allows the description of exogenous and intrusive origins. The characteristics of the registered consumption taphonomical indicators are suggestive of scat and non-ingested accumulation by foxes. Furthermore, this study allows us to discuss some aspects of the formation of the stratigraphy of this important cave necropolis, while also serving as an example of the expected results of foxes’ action on leporid remains in an archaeological site., Depto. de Prehistoria, Historia Antigua y Arqueología, TRUE, pub

Sex estimation of the individuals in a sample is fundamental for any bioarchaeological study to define a particular demographic assemblage or to classify isolated remains. Long bones are an excellent alternative for sex estimation when the most dimorphic anatomical parts are not preserved or are highly altered. Here we propose a set of discriminant functions and classification models to estimate the sex of prehistoric individuals using linear discriminant analysis and machine learning approaches. Different osteometric variables were taken from the humeri, ulnae, radii, femurs and tibias of a sample of 109 articulated skeletons buried in the collective tomb of Camino del Molino (Region of Murcia, SE-Spain), dated to the 3rd millennium BC. Sex was estimated based on standard anthropological methods and ancient DNA analysis of a control sample. Fifty-two discriminant functions with prediction thresholds higher than 0.8 on the ROC curve were obtained using independent (22) and combined variables (30). The best LDA models for sex prediction were those based on proximal epiphyseal widths or their combination with other variables, reaching values close to 0.98 on the ROC curve. The random forest-based model obtained an accuracy of 0.94 and confirmed the importance of epiphyseal widths in sex classification. This analysis is more comprehensive than univariate LDA, as it allows for ranking the importance of bones in sex discrimination and considers correlations between long bones rather than treating them as independent observations. In contrast, applying LDA to each bone makes it easier to predict the sex of other coeval collections that do not have such a complete sample. This work aims to overcome the scarcity of methods that can be applied to sex estimation of the large volume of isolated remains from Camino del Molino and for other Mediterranean skeletal series from the Late Prehistory with high biological affinity and that share similar environmental conditions.

[EN] The purpose of this paper is to present the preliminary results obtained from the techno-morphological analysis of lithic materials recovered of the lithic materials recovered in 6 sites of the Catalan Western plains, which have been related to the Ancient Neolithic. There is a lack of lithic reduction studies based on that zone, which makes this work become the first in extensive study carried out. Such a work is achieved thanks to the analysis of the lithic material following a concrete methodology, within a well-defined theoretical framework, which then leads to a profound documentation through morphotechnical and metric variables. The analysis of the lithic material allows to explain the technological strategies involved in the site under study and the existence of different trajectories of production of the raw materials present in the archaeological record. This same analysis aims to characterize the lithic technology of the place and approach the lithic productions of the Catalan Western plain, [ES] El presente trabajo tiene por objeto exponer los resultados preliminares obtenidos a partir del análisis tecno-morfológico de los materiales líticos recuperados en 6 yacimientos de la llanura occidental catalana, que han sido relacionados con el Neolítico Antiguo. La zona carece de estudios sobre el lítico tallado, siendo este trabajo el primer estudio in extenso realizado. Esta labor se lleva a cabo a partir del análisis del material lítico siguiendo una metodología concreta, dentro de un marco teórico bien definido, empleando una documentación exhaustiva a través de variables morfotécnicas y métricas. El análisis del material lítico permite explicitar las estrategias tecnológicas involucradas en el sitio bajo estudio y deslindar la existencia de diferentes trayectorias de producción de las materias primas presentes en el registro arqueológico. Con él se pretende caracterizar la tecnología lítica del lugar y aproximarse a las producciones líticas de la llanura occidental catalana.

Gorgociles del Escabezado II es un pequeño enclave cerrado por un gran muro perimetral de tendencia circular-ovalada, habitado durante un breve periodo de tiempo una vez iniciado el II milenio BC. Su estudio permite profundizar en su desarrollo arquitectónico y formas constructivas, realizadas con mampostería y amasado de barro, así como en la organización social y características del poblamiento del altiplano murciano en la Edad del Bronce. Su singular planta combina muros de tendencia recta y curva, situándonos entre rasgos arquitectónicos característicos del Calcolítico y de la Edad del Bronce. Se han podido reconocer distintas estructuras para el equipamiento interno de las estancias, incluyendo un posible troje, con una completa documentación de su materialidad en relación con sus espacios. Ello supone una aportación fundamental al conocimiento de las comunidades humanas que habitaron dicho territorio, así como a la investigación de los grupos arqueológicos del sudeste de la península ibérica en estas cronologías., Gorgociles del Escabezado II is a small enclave closed by a perimeter wall of circular-oval form, inhabited during a short period in the beginning of the 2nd millennium BC. Research on this settlement allows to deepen the knowledge on its architectural development and building forms, of masonry as well as cob, but also on the social organization and the characteristics of the settlements in the Murcia Altiplano during the Bronze Age. Its singular layout combines curved and rectilinear walls, architectural features characteristic of the Chalcolithic and Bronze Age respectively. Different structures have been recorded for its internal equipment, including a possible granary, along with the complete documentation of its materiality in relation to its spaces. Its study contributes to the knowledge on the human communities that inhabited this area, as well as on the archaeological groups of the Southeast of the Iberian Peninsula in these chronologies.

Los equipos de molienda rupestres (EMR) son un tipo de artefactos que en ocasiones ha sido identificado como un motivo más dentro del Arte Rupestre Atlántico (ARA), que apenas ha recibido atención en la investigación. A diferencia de los molinos de vaivén tradicionales éstos tienen la particularidad de estar realizados sobre superficies rocosas, lo que les confiere un carácter eminentemente fijo, compartiendo - en ocasiones - soporte con arte rupestre. Los datos actuales disponibles definen un ámbito de distribución geográfica muy específica y localizada en el entorno sur de las Rías Baixas gallegas. El objetivo de este este trabajo es hacer una síntesis actualizada del conocimiento y una primera sistematización de estos artefactos, así como una búsqueda de paralelos arqueológicos y/o etnográficos. Los datos publicados en la actualidad indican la escasez de artefactos de molienda y/o triturado de materiales sobre soportes rocosos fijos en el continente europeo, probablemente por falta de investigación. Ahora bien, existen diversos paralelos en otras regiones del globo, que evidencian la complejidad funcional y cultural de este tipo de elementos., Rock milling equipment (EMR) is an artifact that has sometimes been identified as a motif of Atlantic Rock Art (ARA), but has received few attentions by researchers. Unlike traditional mills, these have the particularity of being made on outcropping surfaces, which gives them an eminently fixed feature, and share – sometimes - support with rock art. The current available data define a specific and localised geographical range in the south of the Galician Rías Baixas. This work is aimed at performing an updated synthesis of knowledge and a first systematization of these artifacts, as well as a find for archaeological and/or ethnographic parallels. Currently published data displays a shortage of milling and/or grinding artifacts on fixed rock supports on the European continent, probably due to low research intensity. However, there are several parallels in other regions of the globe, which highlight the functional and cultural complexity of these artefacts.

Los equipos de molienda rupestres (EMR) son un tipo de artefactos que en ocasiones ha sido identificado como un motivo más dentro del Arte Rupestre Atlántico (ARA), que apenas ha recibido atención en la investigación. A diferencia de los molinos de vaivén tradicionales éstos tienen la particularidad de estar realizados sobre superficies rocosas, lo que les confiere un carácter eminentemente fijo, compartiendo - en ocasiones - soporte con arte rupestre. Los datos actuales disponibles definen un ámbito de distribución geográfica muy específica y localizada en el entorno sur de las Rías Baixas gallegas. El objetivo de este este trabajo es hacer una síntesis actualizada del conocimiento y una primera sistematización de estos artefactos, así como una búsqueda de paralelos arqueológicos y/o etnográficos. Los datos publicados en la actualidad indican la escasez de artefactos de molienda y/o triturado de materiales sobre soportes rocosos fijos en el continente europeo, probablemente por falta de investigación. Ahora bien, existen diversos paralelos en otras regiones del globo, que evidencian la complejidad funcional y cultural de este tipo de elementos., Rock milling equipment (EMR) is an artifact that has sometimes been identified as a motif of Atlantic Rock Art (ARA), but has received few attentions by researchers. Unlike traditional mills, these have the particularity of being made on outcropping surfaces, which gives them an eminently fixed feature, and share – sometimes - support with rock art. The current available data define a specific and localised geographical range in the south of the Galician Rías Baixas. This work is aimed at performing an updated synthesis of knowledge and a first systematization of these artifacts, as well as a find for archaeological and/or ethnographic parallels. Currently published data displays a shortage of milling and/or grinding artifacts on fixed rock supports on the European continent, probably due to low research intensity. However, there are several parallels in other regions of the globe, which highlight the functional and cultural complexity of these artefacts.

Preténdese facer unha revisión dos asentamentos ao aire libre da prehistoria galega partindo do estudo sistemático de dous xacementos, analizados e comparados: O Xacemento de Caldagra/ Os Castros (Vilalba) e a zona arqueolóxica de Penas do Caldeiro (Adai, Lugo). O primeiro foi obxecto dunha escavación en área de urxencia pola construcción da autovía A-8, desvelando un poboado conformado por estruturas en negativo e delimitado por fosos, destacando tamén as fosas. O segundo, coñecido especialmente por una singular cabana prehistórica tipo longhouse esculpida na rocha, Pena Fita, tamén é relevante pola concentración de estruturas prehistóricas e grabados rupestres no seu entorno. Partindo do estudo detallado destes dous xacementos e da súa contextualización rexional, realizaremos unha caracterización mellor definida de este tipo de xacementos en relación coas súas estruturas domésticas e coa articulación complexa multifuncional do espazo, especialmente na fase final da prehistoria recente. Ambos xacementos son similares na presencia neles de longhouses, nunha recoñecible función funeraria e na súa resignificación co paso do tempo, pero o seu estudo comparativo permite abordar e completar de xeito amplo unha fase da prehistoria galega pouco coñecida ata o momento., Se pretende hacer una revisión de los asentamientos al aire libre de la prehistoria gallega partiendo del estudio sistemático de dos yacimientos, analizados y comparados: El Yacimiento de Caldagra/ Os Castros (Vilalba) y la zona arqueológica de Penas do Caldeiro (Adai, Lugo). El primero fue objeto de una excavación en área de urgencia por la construcción de la autovía A-8, desvelando un poblado prehistórico conformado por estructuras en negativo y delimitado por fosos, destacando también las fosas. El segundo, conocido especialmente por una singular cabaña prehistórica tipo longhouse esculpida en roca, Pena Fita, también es relevante por la concentración de estructuras prehistóricas y grabados rupestres en su entorno. Partiendo del estudio detallado de estos dos yacimientos y su contextualización regional, realizaremos una caracterización mejor definida de este tipo de yacimientos en relación con sus estructuras domésticas y con la articulación compleja multifuncional del espacio, especialmente en la fase final de la prehistoria reciente. Ambos yacimientos son similares en la presencia en ellos de longhouses, en una reconocible función funeraria y en su resignificación con el paso del tiempo, pero su estudio comparativo permite abordar y completar de forma amplia una fase de la prehistoria gallega poco conocida hasta el momento., Galician open air prehistoric settlements are intended to be reviewed from a systematic study of two sites, which are analyzed and compared: The Yacimiento de Caldagra/ Os Castros (Vilalba) and the archaeological area of Penas do Caldeiro (Adai, Lugo). The first one was the object of an in area emergency excavation because of the construction of the A-8 motorway, relevaling a prehistoric settlement conformed by in negative structures and delimited by ditches, being pits also important. The second one, which is renowned because of a singular longhouse type prehistoric hut sculptured in the rock, Pena Fita, is also relevant because of the concentration of prehistoric structures and petroglyphs in the place. Starting from a detailed study of these two sites and their regional contextualization, a better defined charactization of this kind of archaeological sites will be made from their domestic structures and the mutifunctional complex articulation of espace, particularlly in the final moments of late prehistory. Both sites are similar in the presence of longhouses, the funerary function and in the resignification of the space throughout time. However, their comparative study allows us to comprehensively address and complete a galician prehistoric fase which is little known at the moment.

Contrary to copper ore resources, tin is scarce in southeastern Iberia. However, tin is essential to produce the copper/tin alloy called tin bronze. The fi rst use of this alloy in the so-called El Argar Culture is detected in its later phases (from 1900–1800 calBC), although it never constituted the predominant alloy. The absence of metallurgical debris related to bronze smelting limits our understanding on how the alloy was obtained and if cassiterite was co-smelted with copper ores in the Argaric territory or whether metallic tin bronzes were imported to El Argar from regions further away. Tin, as an external resource, would have been exchanged or traded, but there is also the possibility that finished bronze objects were imported as well. Some differential pattern in the presence/absence of arsenic in the composition of metal objects could reflect a double strategy, suggesting that local production of tin bronzes usually contains some arsenic, but tin bronzes without any arsenic could have come from other Iberian regions, or at least that different copper ores for the production of arsenical copper and tin bronze were used. This hypothesis is tested using the available lead isotopes analyses.

We examine the quantity, contextual quality and spatial distribution of the data gathered in the strontium isotope archaeological database for the Iberian Peninsula and the Balearic Islands, an open source available as part of IDEArq (www.idearq.org), the spatial data infrastructure hosted at the Instituto de Historia (CSIC). It has to date 1635 87Sr/86Sr values from human and animal samples, and environmental proxies recovered during archaeological research. The data has allowed us to produce the first regional and peninsular strontium isoscapes for Iberia. We discuss the benefits and limitations of approaching mobility in Iberia through 87Sr/86Sr isotope analysis and suggest directions for future collaborative research.

Gorgociles del Escabezado II es un pequeño enclave cerrado por un gran muro perimetral de tendencia circular-ovalada, habitado durante un breve periodo de tiempo una vez iniciado el II milenio BC. Su estudio permite profundizar en su desarrollo arquitectónico y formas constructivas, realizadas con mampostería y amasado de barro, así como en la organización social y características del poblamiento del altiplano murciano en la Edad del Bronce. Su singular planta combina muros de tendencia recta y curva, situándonos entre rasgos arquitectónicos característicos del Calcolítico y de la Edad del Bronce. Se han podido reconocer distintas estructuras para el equipamiento interno de las estancias, incluyendo un posible troje, con una completa documentación de su materialidad en relación con sus espacios. Ello supone una aportación fundamental al conocimiento de las comunidades humanas que habitaron dicho territorio, así como a la investigación de los grupos arqueológicos del sudeste de la península ibérica en estas cronologías., Gorgociles del Escabezado II is a small enclave closed by a perimeter wall of circular-oval form, inhabited during a short period in the beginning of the 2nd millennium BC. Research on this settlement allows to deepen the knowledge on its architectural development and building forms, of masonry as well as cob, but also on the social organization and the characteristics of the settlements in the Murcia Altiplano during the Bronze Age. Its singular layout combines curved and rectilinear walls, architectural features characteristic of the Chalcolithic and Bronze Age respectively. Different structures have been recorded for its internal equipment, including a possible granary, along with the complete documentation of its materiality in relation to its spaces. Its study contributes to the knowledge on the human communities that inhabited this area, as well as on the archaeological groups of the Southeast of the Iberian Peninsula in these chronologies.

Fluorite ornaments have been recorded in different sites of Europe since Upper Paleolithic. Due to its visual appearance and physical properties, some translucent or transparent mineralogies like fluorite were searched for or casually acquired by late prehistory’s human communities. After intensive research on archaeological contexts from the Iberian Peninsula with personal ornaments from 4th to 2nd millennia BCE, we have recently identified and characterized for the first time an important number of fluorite ornaments, confronting a previous background where little attention was paid. Our work has been carried out in different archaeological collections and museums from the whole Iberian Peninsula by non-destructive techniques (Raman spectroscopy, portable X-ray fluorescence (p-XRF) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD), that revealed the nature of fluorite ornaments and points to its consideration as scarce and highly symbolic items during late prehistory. A total of 36 fluorite beads from 23 sites are here recorded and studied, many of them unpublished or wrong catalogued as other mineralogies. These adornments could have important roles in trade and use among the communities of Iberia from the 4th millennium BCE onwards, because of their scarcity and its recurrent association with important funerary complex and exotic materials. Fluorite ornaments could have been significant and special symbols in the development of new and exclusive raw materials in the context of increasing social complexity and inequality.

Fluorite ornaments have been recorded in different sites of Europe since Upper Paleolithic. Due to its visual appearance and physical properties, some translucent or transparent mineralogies like fluorite were searched for or casually acquired by late prehistory’s human communities. After intensive research on archaeological contexts from the Iberian Peninsula with personal ornaments from 4th to 2nd millennia BCE, we have recently identified and characterized for the first time an important number of fluorite ornaments, confronting a previous background where little attention was paid. Our work has been carried out in different archaeological collections and museums from the whole Iberian Peninsula by non-destructive techniques (Raman spectroscopy, portable X-ray fluorescence (p-XRF) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD), that revealed the nature of fluorite ornaments and points to its consideration as scarce and highly symbolic items during late prehistory. A total of 36 fluorite beads from 23 sites are here recorded and studied, many of them unpublished or wrong catalogued as other mineralogies. These adornments could have important roles in trade and use among the communities of Iberia from the 4th millennium BCE onwards, because of their scarcity and its recurrent association with important funerary complex and exotic materials. Fluorite ornaments could have been significant and special symbols in the development of new and exclusive raw materials in the context of increasing social complexity and inequality.

El jaciment de La Bastida (Totana, Murcia) s'emmarca en l'Edat del Bronze Argàrica. Habitat entre 2200 i 1600 cal ANE, fou un dels centres més importants d'aquella societat, arribant a assolir l'estatus d'urbà. Ocupava unes 4,5 hectàrees d'un turó escarpat i ben protegit per barrancs i una potent fortificació. En el seu interior s'han documentat restes arquitectòniques de diversa entitat durant tres fases d'ocupació. En el subsol de l'assentament s'han identificat nombroses tombes en urna, cista, fosa i, esporàdicament, covetes artificials ("covachas"), la majoria individuals. El registre funerari de La Bastida el conformen 236 tombes, excavades entre 1869 i 2013. La col·lecció antropològica analitzada en aquesta tesi doctoral correspon a 153 esquelets, en la seva major part procedents de les excavacions a càrrec del grup d'investigació Arqueocologia Social Mediterrània (ASOME-UAB). Això la converteix en una de les col·leccions osteològiques més amplies de la arqueologia argàrica. La recerca s'ha fonamentat en les dades obtingudes durant les excavacions (tractament i disposició dels cadàvers) i, de manera especial, en el registre informatiu que ha proporcionat l'anàlisi antropològic de les restes esquelètiques. Tot això ha permès identificar diferencies diacròniques en les pràctiques funeràries, així com aproximar-nos al perfil demogràfic i les condicions de vida de la població que va rebre sepultura en La Bastida. L'anàlisi antropològic ha considerat aspectes relatius a la conservació i representació esquelètica, abans d'emprendre la reconstrucció del perfil biològic i els indicadors d'activitat (processos degeneratius en les articulacions, marcadors musculoesquelètics i altres patologies). La recerca també ha generat aportacions metodològiques rellevants, entre les que destaca les fórmules discriminants que permetran determinar el sexe amb major fiabilitat altres col·leccions argàriques. La conjunció de diverses línies d'anàlisi ha proporcionat una imatge inèdita, El yacimiento de La Bastida (Totana, Murcia) se enmarca en la Edad del Bronce Argárica. Habitado entre 2200 y 1600 cal ANE, fue uno de los centros más importantes de aquella sociedad, llegando a alcanzar un estatus urbano. Ocupó 4,5 hectáreas de extensión en un cerro muy bien protegido gracias a su topografía escarpada y a una potente fortificación. En su interior se han documentado restos arquitectónicos de diversa entidad a lo largo de tres fases de ocupación. En el subsuelo del asentamiento se han hallado numerosas tumbas en urna, cista, fosa y, esporádicamente, covacha, la mayoría individuales. El registro funerario de La Bastida consta de 236 tumbas, excavadas entre 1869 y 2013. La colección antropológica analizada en esta tesis doctoral corresponde a 153 esqueletos, en su mayor parte procedentes de las excavaciones a cargo del grupo de investigación Arqueoecología Social Mediterránea (ASOME-UAB). Ello la convierte en una de las colecciones osteológicas más amplias de la arqueología argárica. La investigación se ha basado en los datos obtenidos durante las excavaciones (tratamiento y disposición de los cadáveres) y, de forma especial, en el registro informativo que ha proporcionado el análisis antropológico de los restos esqueléticos. Todo ello ha permitido identificar diferencias diacrónicas en las prácticas funerarias, así como aproximarnos al perfil demográfico y las condiciones de vida de la población que recibió sepultura en La Bastida. El análisis antropológico ha considerado aspectos relativos a la conservación y representación esquelética, antes de abordar la reconstrucción del perfil biológico y los indicadores de actividad (procesos degenerativos en las articulaciones, marcadores musculoesqueléticos y otras patologías). La investigación también ha generado aportaciones metodológicas relevantes, entre las que destacan las fórmulas discriminantes que permitirán sexuar con mayor fiabilidad otras colecciones argáricas. La conjunción de diversas líneas de, La Bastida (Totana, Murcia) was one of key sites in southeast Iberia during the Argaric Early Bronze Age. With a continuous occupation from 2200 to 1600 cal BCE, this urban hilltop center occupied approximately 4,5 hectares, and was very well protected by means of its topography and complex ramparts. The settlement underwent major architectural remodeling all along its three occupation phases. A large number of burials have been found under the dwelling area either in large jars (pithos burials), cists, pits or, more rarely, rock-cut tombs. La Bastida funerary record is made up of 236 tombs excavated between 1869 and 2013. The anthropological sample that has been investigated in this dissertation comprises 153 skeletons, most of them recovered by the ASOME-UAB research group (Mediterranean Social Archeoecology). It is one of the largest osteological series in Argaric archaeology. The anthropological research of this dissertation relies on first-hand data gather directly both in the field and in the laboratory. This has made it possible to identify differences in the treatment of the bodies throughout the occupation of La Bastida and a demographic approach of who inhabited this settlement and the conditions in which they lived. The osteoarchaeological analysis has assessed the skeletal conservation and representation, before approaching the biological profile and different activity indicators such as degenerative joint disease, musculoskeletal markers and other pathologies. In the course of this research, relevant methodological contributions have also been made, as the discriminant functions that will enhance sex estimation in Argaric populations. The combination of all these studies have allowed us to approach the living conditions of the Argaric community of La Bastida., Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. Programa de Doctorat en Arqueologia Prehistòrica

Fluorite ornaments have been recorded in different sites of Europe since Upper Paleolithic. Due to its visual appearance and physical properties, some translucent or transparent mineralogies like fluorite were searched for or casually acquired by late prehistory’s human communities. After intensive research on archaeological contexts from the Iberian Peninsula with personal ornaments from 4th to 2nd millennia BCE, we have recently identified and characterized for the first time an important number of fluorite ornaments, confronting a previous background where little attention was paid. Our work has been carried out in different archaeological collections and museums from the whole Iberian Peninsula by non-destructive techniques (Raman spectroscopy, portable X-ray fluorescence (p-XRF) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD), that revealed the nature of fluorite ornaments and points to its consideration as scarce and highly symbolic items during late prehistory. A total of 36 fluorite beads from 23 sites are here recorded and studied, many of them unpublished or wrong catalogued as other mineralogies. These adornments could have important roles in trade and use among the communities of Iberia from the 4th millennium BCE onwards, because of their scarcity and its recurrent association with important funerary complex and exotic materials. Fluorite ornaments could have been significant and special symbols in the development of new and exclusive raw materials in the context of increasing social complexity and inequality.

Fluorite ornaments have been recorded in different sites of Europe since Upper Paleolithic. Due to its visual appearance and physical properties, some translucent or transparent mineralogies like fluorite were searched for or casually acquired by late prehistory’s human communities. After intensive research on archaeological contexts from the Iberian Peninsula with personal ornaments from 4th to 2nd millennia BCE, we have recently identified and characterized for the first time an important number of fluorite ornaments, confronting a previous background where little attention was paid. Our work has been carried out in different archaeological collections and museums from the whole Iberian Peninsula by non-destructive techniques (Raman spectroscopy, portable X-ray fluorescence (p-XRF) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD), that revealed the nature of fluorite ornaments and points to its consideration as scarce and highly symbolic items during late prehistory. A total of 36 fluorite beads from 23 sites are here recorded and studied, many of them unpublished or wrong catalogued as other mineralogies. These adornments could have important roles in trade and use among the communities of Iberia from the 4th millennium BCE onwards, because of their scarcity and its recurrent association with important funerary complex and exotic materials. Fluorite ornaments could have been significant and special symbols in the development of new and exclusive raw materials in the context of increasing social complexity and inequality.

Fluorite ornaments have been recorded in different sites of Europe since Upper Paleolithic. Due to its visual appearance and physical properties, some translucent or transparent mineralogies like fluorite were searched for or casually acquired by late prehistory’s human communities. After intensive research on archaeological contexts from the Iberian Peninsula with personal ornaments from 4th to 2nd millennia BCE, we have recently identified and characterized for the first time an important number of fluorite ornaments, confronting a previous background where little attention was paid. Our work has been carried out in different archaeological collections and museums from the whole Iberian Peninsula by non-destructive techniques (Raman spectroscopy, portable X-ray fluorescence (p-XRF) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD), that revealed the nature of fluorite ornaments and points to its consideration as scarce and highly symbolic items during late prehistory. A total of 36 fluorite beads from 23 sites are here recorded and studied, many of them unpublished or wrong catalogued as other mineralogies. These adornments could have important roles in trade and use among the communities of Iberia from the 4th millennium BCE onwards, because of their scarcity and its recurrent association with important funerary complex and exotic materials. Fluorite ornaments could have been significant and special symbols in the development of new and exclusive raw materials in the context of increasing social complexity and inequality.

Fluorite ornaments have been recorded in different sites of Europe since Upper Paleolithic. Due to its visual appearance and physical properties, some translucent or transparent mineralogies like fluorite were searched for or casually acquired by late prehistory’s human communities. After intensive research on archaeological contexts from the Iberian Peninsula with personal ornaments from 4th to 2nd millennia BCE, we have recently identified and characterized for the first time an important number of fluorite ornaments, confronting a previous background where little attention was paid. Our work has been carried out in different archaeological collections and museums from the whole Iberian Peninsula by non-destructive techniques (Raman spectroscopy, portable X-ray fluorescence (p-XRF) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD), that revealed the nature of fluorite ornaments and points to its consideration as scarce and highly symbolic items during late prehistory. A total of 36 fluorite beads from 23 sites are here recorded and studied, many of them unpublished or wrong catalogued as other mineralogies. These adornments could have important roles in trade and use among the communities of Iberia from the 4th millennium BCE onwards, because of their scarcity and its recurrent association with important funerary complex and exotic materials. Fluorite ornaments could have been significant and special symbols in the development of new and exclusive raw materials in the context of increasing social complexity and inequality.

The archaeological site of A Ceada das Chás/ Castelo de Lobarzán, in the upper Támega valley, appears to be a relevant settlement in several periods between Late Prehistory and the final years of the Middle Ages. The aim of this paper is to analyze the results of the first campaign at this site, in both prospecting and excavation, and its significance related to the region where it lies., El conjunto arqueológico de A Ceada das Chás/ Castelo de Lobarzán, en el alto valle del río Támega, mostró haber sido un relevante asentamiento en diversos períodos entre la Prehistoria Reciente y los últimos años de la Edad Media. El presente artículo tiene por objetivo analizar los resultados de la primera campaña de prospección y excavación en el yacimiento y su significación en la comarca.

Fluorite ornaments have been recorded in different sites of Europe since Upper Paleolithic. Due to its visual appearance and physical properties, some translucent or transparent mineralogies like fluorite were searched for or casually acquired by late prehistory’s human communities. After intensive research on archaeological contexts from the Iberian Peninsula with personal ornaments from 4th to 2nd millennia BCE, we have recently identified and characterized for the first time an important number of fluorite ornaments, confronting a previous background where little attention was paid. Our work has been carried out in different archaeological collections and museums from the whole Iberian Peninsula by non-destructive techniques (Raman spectroscopy, portable X-ray fluorescence (p-XRF) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD), that revealed the nature of fluorite ornaments and points to its consideration as scarce and highly symbolic items during late prehistory. A total of 36 fluorite beads from 23 sites are here recorded and studied, many of them unpublished or wrong catalogued as other mineralogies. These adornments could have important roles in trade and use among the communities of Iberia from the 4th millennium BCE onwards, because of their scarcity and its recurrent association with important funerary complex and exotic materials. Fluorite ornaments could have been significant and special symbols in the development of new and exclusive raw materials in the context of increasing social complexity and inequality.

The archaeological site of A Ceada das Chás/ Castelo de Lobarzán, in the upper Támega valley, appears to be a relevant settlement in several periods between Late Prehistory and the final years of the Middle Ages. The aim of this paper is to analyze the results of the first campaign at this site, in both prospecting and excavation, and its significance related to the region where it lies., El conjunto arqueológico de A Ceada das Chás/ Castelo de Lobarzán, en el alto valle del río Támega, mostró haber sido un relevante asentamiento en diversos períodos entre la Prehistoria Reciente y los últimos años de la Edad Media. El presente artículo tiene por objetivo analizar los resultados de la primera campaña de prospección y excavación en el yacimiento y su significación en la comarca.

La reutilización de materias primas y artefactos se ha practicado por las comunidades humanas desde tiempos paleolíticos. En el ámbito de la arquitectura, la reutilización puede aplicarse a los espacios −reuso de un edificio o de partes del mismo− y a los materiales. Con este artículo pretendemos contribuir a visibilizar la extensión y la importancia de las prácticas de reempleo de materiales en el ámbito de la construcción en la Prehistoria reciente de la península ibérica., The reutilization of raw materials and artifacts has been carried out by human communities since Palaeolithic times. In the realm of architecture, reutilization can be applied to spaces −reuse of a building or parts of it− and materials. With this paper we aim to contribute to make visible the extension and importance of the reuse practices of materials in building activities during the Late Prehistory in the Iberian Peninsula.

En este artículo pretendemos dar a conocer un elemento mueble de barro endurecido que presenta una morfología poco habitual en las formas materiales de la Prehistoria reciente peninsular. Fue hallado en el interior de un calzo de poste en la unidad habitacional 8 del asentamiento de la Edad del Bronce de Terlinques. Con este trabajo mostramos sus características y planteamos algunas de las posibles motivaciones de su fabricación., En aquest article volem donar a conèixer un element moble de fang endurit que presenta una morfologia poc habitual en les formes materials de la Prehistòria recent peninsular. Va ser trobat a l’interior d’una falca de pal a la unitat d’habitació 8 de l’assentament de l’ Edat del Bronze de Terlinques. Amb aquest treball mostrem les seues característiques i plantegem algunes de les possibles motivacions de la seua fabricació., In this paper we intend to make known a portable object made of hardened mud which has unusual morphological characteristics in the material culture of the Late Prehistory in the Iberian Peninsula. It was found inside a posthole in the occupation unit 8 of the Bronze Age settlement of Terlinques. With this contribution we present and put forward its characteristics and also, we discuss the possible purposes of its fabrication.

The results of this study allow for a review of the iconography in Pala de Cabras rock-shelter (Ourense). This site, with 15 art panels, is one of the most complex sites with Iberian Schematic Art in the Northwestern part of Iberia.Within this ensemble, three representations of the so-called eyed-idols, soliform, ramiform and zig-zag stand out. The identification of new figures implied the revision of the chronological frame of this rock art site and, therefore, implies a new analisys on its cultural context into the Iberian rock art regions. The presence of this rock-shelter in the eastern Galician mountain range is helping to define the encounter zone of two different rock art traditions: the Schematic art and the Atlantic art., Los resultados del presente estudio han permitido redefinir la iconografía del abrigo de Pala de Cabras (Ourense). Este yacimiento, con 15 paneles, constituye uno de los conjuntos con Arte Esquemático más complejos del noroeste de la Península Ibérica. Entre las figuras pintadas destacan 3 representaciones de las llamadas figuras oculadas, soliformes, ramiformes y zig-zag. La identificación de nuevas figuras obliga a una revisión del marco cronológico del yacimiento y, por lo tanto, a un nuevo análisis de su contexto cultural dentro de las regiones rupestres de la Península Ibérica. La presencia de este abrigo en las sierras orientales gallegas, está ayudando a definir la zona de encuentro entre dos tradiciones rupestres: la Esquemática y la Atlántica.

Translucent minerals were valued in prehistoric societies for their rarity and socially used as highly symbolic elements. This work addresses the use and nature of Iberian translucent beads. We present the results of chemical (Raman spectroscopy, portable X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction and visible (Vis)/near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy) and contextual analyses and provide a review of the archaeological literature on the manufacture and use of translucent items during Iberian Late Prehistory. A total of 54 translucent beads from 47 sites, primarily burials, were analyzed; 33 were made from fluorite, while the remaining 21 were made of diverse translucent minerals (calcite, quartz and different silicates). The scarcity of translucent items in the archaeo-logical record, the regional and supraregional scale of its exchange, and its recursive association to other valuables in singular contexts reinforces the idea that their owners/wearers enjoyed a high status., Los minerales translúcidos fueron apreciados por las sociedades prehistóricas por su rareza, y fueron utilizados como elementos altamente simbólicos. Este trabajo aborda el uso y la caracterización de las cuentas translúcidas de la península ibérica, mediante análisis químico (espectroscopía Raman, espectrómetro de fluorescencia de rayos X portátil, difracción de rayos X y espectroscopia en región visible y en infrarrojo cercano) y contextual, junto a una revisión de la bibliografía arqueológica sobre la producción y uso de adornos y elementos translúcidos durante la Prehistoria Reciente ibérica. Un total de 54 cuentas de 47 yacimientos, mayoritariamente funerarios, han sido analizadas; 33 fueron trabajadas en fluorita, mientras que las restantes 21 fueron realizadas en distintos minerales translúcidos (calcita, cuarzo y varios silicatos). La escasez de adornos translúcidos en el registro arqueológico, su esca-la regional y suprarregional de intercambio, y su asociación recurrente a otros elementos de prestigio en contextos singulares refuerzan la hipótesis del alto estatus de sus poseedores/portadores.

Translucent minerals were valued in prehistoric societies for their rarity and socially used as highly symbolic elements. This work addresses the use and nature of Iberian translucent beads. We present the results of chemical (Raman spectroscopy, portable X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction and visible (Vis)/near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy) and contextual analyses and provide a review of the archaeological literature on the manufacture and use of translucent items during Iberian Late Prehistory. A total of 54 translucent beads from 47 sites, primarily burials, were analyzed; 33 were made from fluorite, while the remaining 21 were made of diverse translucent minerals (calcite, quartz and different silicates). The scarcity of translucent items in the archaeo-logical record, the regional and supraregional scale of its exchange, and its recursive association to other valuables in singular contexts reinforces the idea that their owners/wearers enjoyed a high status., Los minerales translúcidos fueron apreciados por las sociedades prehistóricas por su rareza, y fueron utilizados como elementos altamente simbólicos. Este trabajo aborda el uso y la caracterización de las cuentas translúcidas de la península ibérica, mediante análisis químico (espectroscopía Raman, espectrómetro de fluorescencia de rayos X portátil, difracción de rayos X y espectroscopia en región visible y en infrarrojo cercano) y contextual, junto a una revisión de la bibliografía arqueológica sobre la producción y uso de adornos y elementos translúcidos durante la Prehistoria Reciente ibérica. Un total de 54 cuentas de 47 yacimientos, mayoritariamente funerarios, han sido analizadas; 33 fueron trabajadas en fluorita, mientras que las restantes 21 fueron realizadas en distintos minerales translúcidos (calcita, cuarzo y varios silicatos). La escasez de adornos translúcidos en el registro arqueológico, su esca-la regional y suprarregional de intercambio, y su asociación recurrente a otros elementos de prestigio en contextos singulares refuerzan la hipótesis del alto estatus de sus poseedores/portadores.

The results of this study allow for a review of the iconography in Pala de Cabras rock-shelter (Ourense). This site, with 15 art panels, is one of the most complex sites with Iberian Schematic Art in the Northwestern part of Iberia.Within this ensemble, three representations of the so-called eyed-idols, soliform, ramiform and zig-zag stand out. The identification of new figures implied the revision of the chronological frame of this rock art site and, therefore, implies a new analisys on its cultural context into the Iberian rock art regions. The presence of this rock-shelter in the eastern Galician mountain range is helping to define the encounter zone of two different rock art traditions: the Schematic art and the Atlantic art., Los resultados del presente estudio han permitido redefinir la iconografía del abrigo de Pala de Cabras (Ourense). Este yacimiento, con 15 paneles, constituye uno de los conjuntos con Arte Esquemático más complejos del noroeste de la Península Ibérica. Entre las figuras pintadas destacan 3 representaciones de las llamadas figuras oculadas, soliformes, ramiformes y zig-zag. La identificación de nuevas figuras obliga a una revisión del marco cronológico del yacimiento y, por lo tanto, a un nuevo análisis de su contexto cultural dentro de las regiones rupestres de la Península Ibérica. La presencia de este abrigo en las sierras orientales gallegas, está ayudando a definir la zona de encuentro entre dos tradiciones rupestres: la Esquemática y la Atlántica.

Translucent minerals were valued in prehistoric societies for their rarity and socially used as highly symbolic elements. This work addresses the use and nature of Iberian translucent beads. We present the results of chemical (Raman spectroscopy, portable X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction and visible (Vis)/near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy) and contextual analyses and provide a review of the archaeological literature on the manufacture and use of translucent items during Iberian Late Prehistory. A total of 54 translucent beads from 47 sites, primarily burials, were analyzed; 33 were made from fluorite, while the remaining 21 were made of diverse translucent minerals (calcite, quartz and different silicates). The scarcity of translucent items in the archaeo-logical record, the regional and supraregional scale of its exchange, and its recursive association to other valuables in singular contexts reinforces the idea that their owners/wearers enjoyed a high status., Los minerales translúcidos fueron apreciados por las sociedades prehistóricas por su rareza, y fueron utilizados como elementos altamente simbólicos. Este trabajo aborda el uso y la caracterización de las cuentas translúcidas de la península ibérica, mediante análisis químico (espectroscopía Raman, espectrómetro de fluorescencia de rayos X portátil, difracción de rayos X y espectroscopia en región visible y en infrarrojo cercano) y contextual, junto a una revisión de la bibliografía arqueológica sobre la producción y uso de adornos y elementos translúcidos durante la Prehistoria Reciente ibérica. Un total de 54 cuentas de 47 yacimientos, mayoritariamente funerarios, han sido analizadas; 33 fueron trabajadas en fluorita, mientras que las restantes 21 fueron realizadas en distintos minerales translúcidos (calcita, cuarzo y varios silicatos). La escasez de adornos translúcidos en el registro arqueológico, su esca-la regional y suprarregional de intercambio, y su asociación recurrente a otros elementos de prestigio en contextos singulares refuerzan la hipótesis del alto estatus de sus poseedores/portadores.

La reutilización de materias primas y artefactos se ha practicado por las comunidades humanas desde tiempos paleolíticos. En el ámbito de la arquitectura, la reutilización puede aplicarse a los espacios −reuso de un edificio o de partes del mismo− y a los materiales. Con este artículo pretendemos contribuir a visibilizar la extensión y la importancia de las prácticas de reempleo de materiales en el ámbito de la construcción en la Prehistoria reciente de la península ibérica., The reutilization of raw materials and artifacts has been carried out by human communities since Palaeolithic times. In the realm of architecture, reutilization can be applied to spaces −reuse of a building or parts of it− and materials. With this paper we aim to contribute to make visible the extension and importance of the reuse practices of materials in building activities during the Late Prehistory in the Iberian Peninsula.

En este artículo pretendemos dar a conocer un elemento mueble de barro endurecido que presenta una morfología poco habitual en las formas materiales de la Prehistoria reciente peninsular. Fue hallado en el interior de un calzo de poste en la unidad habitacional 8 del asentamiento de la Edad del Bronce de Terlinques. Con este trabajo mostramos sus características y planteamos algunas de las posibles motivaciones de su fabricación., En aquest article volem donar a conèixer un element moble de fang endurit que presenta una morfologia poc habitual en les formes materials de la Prehistòria recent peninsular. Va ser trobat a l’interior d’una falca de pal a la unitat d’habitació 8 de l’assentament de l’ Edat del Bronze de Terlinques. Amb aquest treball mostrem les seues característiques i plantegem algunes de les possibles motivacions de la seua fabricació., In this paper we intend to make known a portable object made of hardened mud which has unusual morphological characteristics in the material culture of the Late Prehistory in the Iberian Peninsula. It was found inside a posthole in the occupation unit 8 of the Bronze Age settlement of Terlinques. With this contribution we present and put forward its characteristics and also, we discuss the possible purposes of its fabrication.

Este trabajo supone una actualización de la documentación disponible sobre la necrópolis del Cerro Ortega, que incluye nuevas dataciones absolutas y su contexto cultural. Se aportan datos y materiales inéditos sobre algunos sitios arqueológicos fundamentales para comprender los procesos de cambio cultural entre los IV y III milenios cal BC en el interior peninsular: Cerro Ortega, Villamayor de Calatrava, Vega de los Morales (Aldea del Rey), Cueva Maturras (Argamasilla de Alba) y La Jalbegada, entre otros. La presentación de pulseras de piedra, ídolos, adornos personales de concha, hueso, pizarra, clinocloro, clinoferrosilita y calcita, así como la orientación a eventos astronómicos de un refugio sepulcral, proporciona información sobre los aspectos simbólicos de las primeras comunidades productoras de La Mancha. El estudio permite avanzar en el conocimiento de las bases neolíticas que permitieron formar el substrato calcolítico de la Cultura de las Motillas., This work is an update of the available documentation on the Cerro Ortega necropolis, which includes new absolute dates and its cultural context. Unpublished data and materials are provided on some fundamental archaeological sites to understand the processes of cultural change between the IV and III millennia cal BC in the interior of Iberia: Cerro Ortega, Villamayor de Calatrava, Vega de los Morales (Aldea del Rey), Cueva Maturras (Argamasilla de Alba) and La Jalbegada, among others. The presentation of stone bracelets, idols, personal adornments of shell, bone, slate, clinochlore, clinoferrosilite and calcite, as well as the orientation to astronomical events of a sepulchral shelter, provides information about the symbolic aspects of the first producing communities of La Mancha. The study allows us to observe the Neolithic bases that allowed to form the Chalcolithic substratum of the Culture of the Motillas., Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICINN), Depto. de Prehistoria, Historia Antigua y Arqueología, Fac. de Geografía e Historia, TRUE, pub

En este artículo se analizan el conjunto de cambios observados entre el 2800 y el 1500 cal BC en el patrón de asentamiento, las áreas residenciales y las áreas de actividad de los yacimientos excavados en el Este de la península Ibérica. Todas estas transformaciones están vinculadas con el desarrollo social que se observa en el marco del proceso histórico del conjunto de sociedades gestado en el Sureste y mediodía de la península Ibérica desde el III milenio cal BC., En aquest article s’analitzen el conjunt de canvis observats entre el 2800 i el 1500 cal BC en el patró d’assentament, les àrees residencials i les àrees d’activitat dels jaciments excavats a la zona est de la península Ibérica. Totes aquestes transformacions estan vinculades amb el desenvolupament social que s’observa en el marc del procés històric del conjunt de societats gestat en el Sud-est i migdia de la península Ibèrica des del III mil·lenni cal BC., In this paper, we analyze the transformations observed between 2800 and 1500 BC in the settlement pattern, residential areas and areas of activity within the excavated sites at Eastern Iberian Peninsula. All these transformations are linked to the social development in the historical process of the set of societies developed in the Southeast and midday of the Iberian Peninsula since the 3rd millennium BC.

The open-air rock art site of Arroyo de las Almas, in the municipality of La Fregeneda (Salamanca), was discovered by the authors of this text in September 2015. The survey and documentation work carried out in the months following the first discoveries, with the aim of getting to know the site in a precise manner, led us to new and relevant artistic evidences, both Palaeolithic and Postpalaeolithic. As a result of these archaeological works, four different engraved settings have been distinguished in the site, located in the stream and in several of its main tributaries, with 24 schist rocks decorated with approximately 600 engraved motifs. The aim of the present text is to provide a detailed description of the geomorphological and landscape environment of this new ensemble, along with a first and general introduction of its graphic repertoire for each of the four cultural and chronological registered periods: Upper Palaeolithic, Late Prehistory, Iron Age and Modern Age., El conjunto arqueológico rupestre al aire libre del Arroyo de las Almas, en el municipio salmantino de La Fregeneda, fue descubierto por los autores de este texto a partir de septiembre de 2015. Los trabajos de prospección y documentación desarrollados en los meses subsiguientes a los primeros hallazgos, con el fin de conocer el entorno de manera precisa, nos condujeron a nuevas y relevantes evidencias artísticas, tanto paleolíticas como postpaleolíticas. Como resultado final de estas tareas arqueológicas se han diferenciado 4 núcleos grabados localizados en dicho arroyo y en varios de sus principales afluentes, con 24 rocas de pizarras y esquistos y, aproximadamente, 600 motivos grabados. En este trabajo presentamos una descripción detallada del ambiente geomorfológico y paisajístico de este nuevo conjunto además de una visión general de su repertorio gráfico en cada uno de los cuatro períodos cronoculturales registrados: Paleolítico Superior, Prehistoria Reciente, Edad del Hierro y Época Moderna y Contemporánea.

We present hithereto unpublished documents preserved in the Blanc-Aguet archive, in Rome. They include three letters written in 1958 by I.P. Capozzi to A.C. Blanc, describing archaeological materials and what appeared to be dolmenic structures found in the 1940s at Monte Forcino, near Sezze (Latina). This information is of great interest when seeking to reconstruct archaeological presences in this area, but should be considered with caution.

In this work the Monte del Cerro site is presented. It is located on the top of the homonymous relief at about 648 m a.s.l. in an area immediately within the pre-Apennines (Monti Lepini, Lazio). The site is characterized by an imposing boundary wall that makes this context, at the current state of research, unique in the territory under examination.

The aim of this work is to highlight some faint clues from the Setino territory related to the possible presence of dolmenic structures in the Monte Forcino area, represented by some photographs published in the 90’s.

The open-air rock art site of Arroyo de las Almas, in the municipality of La Fregeneda (Salamanca), was discovered by the authors of this text in September 2015. The survey and documentation work carried out in the months following the first discoveries, with the aim of getting to know the site in a precise manner, led us to new and relevant artistic evidences, both Palaeolithic and Postpalaeolithic. As a result of these archaeological works, four different engraved settings have been distinguished in the site, located in the stream and in several of its main tributaries, with 24 schist rocks decorated with approximately 600 engraved motifs. The aim of the present text is to provide a detailed description of the geomorphological and landscape environment of this new ensemble, along with a first and general introduction of its graphic repertoire for each of the four cultural and chronological registered periods: Upper Palaeolithic, Late Prehistory, Iron Age and Modern Age., El conjunto arqueológico rupestre al aire libre del Arroyo de las Almas, en el municipio salmantino de La Fregeneda, fue descubierto por los autores de este texto a partir de septiembre de 2015. Los trabajos de prospección y documentación desarrollados en los meses subsiguientes a los primeros hallazgos, con el fin de conocer el entorno de manera precisa, nos condujeron a nuevas y relevantes evidencias artísticas, tanto paleolíticas como postpaleolíticas. Como resultado final de estas tareas arqueológicas se han diferenciado 4 núcleos grabados localizados en dicho arroyo y en varios de sus principales afluentes, con 24 rocas de pizarras y esquistos y, aproximadamente, 600 motivos grabados. En este trabajo presentamos una descripción detallada del ambiente geomorfológico y paisajístico de este nuevo conjunto además de una visión general de su repertorio gráfico en cada uno de los cuatro períodos cronoculturales registrados: Paleolítico Superior, Prehistoria Reciente, Edad del Hierro y Época Moderna y Contemporánea.

El hallazgo de un vaso cerámico parcialmente conservado en el curso de las excavaciones llevadas a cabo en Cova Eirós permite aportar nuevos datos sobre la cultura material del Neolítico regional. El recipiente, tanto por su forma de botella como por su decoración (impresión de concha), recuerda claramente a la cerámica cardial, tan característica del registro arqueológico entre los primeros grupos neolíticos del sur de la península ibérica. Se abordan las circunstancias del hallazgo y los paralelos más cercanos, que se encuentran entre las colecciones cerámicas del sur de Portugal. A modo de conclusión, sugerimos que la pieza analizada se remonta probablemente al final del VI milenio a. C., The discovery of a partially preserved vessel in the course of the excavations carried out in Cova Eirós brings forth new data on the material culture of the regional Neolithic. The pot, both in its bottle-like shape and decoration (shell impressed), recalls strongly the cardial ware, so characteristic of the archaeological record in the Early Neolithic groups of South Iberia. We discuss the circumstances of the finding and the closest parallels to be found among the pottery collections from South Portugal. As a result, we suggest that the vessel found at Cova Eirós would date back to the end of the 6th Millennium BC.

En este artículo se analizan el conjunto de cambios observados entre el 2800 y el 1500 cal BC en el patrón de asentamiento, las áreas residenciales y las áreas de actividad de los yacimientos excavados en el Este de la península Ibérica. Todas estas transformaciones están vinculadas con el desarrollo social que se observa en el marco del proceso histórico del conjunto de sociedades gestado en el Sureste y mediodía de la península Ibérica desde el III milenio cal BC., En aquest article s’analitzen el conjunt de canvis observats entre el 2800 i el 1500 cal BC en el patró d’assentament, les àrees residencials i les àrees d’activitat dels jaciments excavats a la zona est de la península Ibérica. Totes aquestes transformacions estan vinculades amb el desenvolupament social que s’observa en el marc del procés històric del conjunt de societats gestat en el Sud-est i migdia de la península Ibèrica des del III mil·lenni cal BC., In this paper, we analyze the transformations observed between 2800 and 1500 BC in the settlement pattern, residential areas and areas of activity within the excavated sites at Eastern Iberian Peninsula. All these transformations are linked to the social development in the historical process of the set of societies developed in the Southeast and midday of the Iberian Peninsula since the 3rd millennium BC.

The characterization of materials used in the construction of megalithic monuments can be considered a key aspect for a better understanding of the social behavior of past societies. The excavation of four dolmens and one small cist in 2015 at the megalithic necropolis of Panoria (Granada, Spain) offered an excellent opportunity to explore the geological properties and potential source area(s) of the uprights used in their construction. All the stone slabs came from the same raw material: fine-grained, beige to pink limestones that occasionally show red and black chert nodules, with wavy stratifications and a packstone texture. Comparison with the geological properties of the surrounding outcrops matches a lithostratigraphy known as the Ammonitico Rosso Formation. Thus, it seems safe to say that the quarry area was located next to the necropolis. Explanations other than the traditional practical reasons have been put forward to understand why the stone slabs were quarried from the same mountain in which the tombs were located.

The characterization of materials used in the construction of megalithic monuments can be considered a key aspect for a better understanding of the social behavior of past societies. The excavation of four dolmens and one small cist in 2015 at the megalithic necropolis of Panoria (Granada, Spain) offered an excellent opportunity to explore the geological properties and potential source area(s) of the uprights used in their construction. All the stone slabs came from the same raw material: fine-grained, beige to pink limestones that occasionally show red and black chert nodules, with wavy stratifications and a packstone texture. Comparison with the geological properties of the surrounding outcrops matches a lithostratigraphy known as the Ammonitico Rosso Formation. Thus, it seems safe to say that the quarry area was located next to the necropolis. Explanations other than the traditional practical reasons have been put forward to understand why the stone slabs were quarried from the same mountain in which the tombs were located.

e present work aims to make known, with more depth, the rock art sites of Late prehistory of the Carrazeda de Ansiães Plateau, mostly known in the bibliography. e Carrazeda de Ansiães Plateau is a rich territory from the archaeological point of view. However, inexplicably, there were never implemented here research projects based on systematic study, on the ground that looked about the prehistoric settlement. Following the assumptions of Landscape Archaeology, we have done a job of relocation of the known sites and the prospection of their surroundings. In the case of rock-art sites we’ve performed descriptions that included the topographic relationship of the sites with the territory, having added to our characterization the graphical component, based on partial decals. We aimed to establish the relationship of rock-art sites with other archaeological sites, in the pursuit of the settlement on the Carrazeda de Ansiães Plateau during Late prehistory (IV, III and eventually, II mil. BC). e study of the graphics of the rock-art sites allowed us to outline their graphic characteristics, formalisms, associations and to draw the main lines of force with regard to the identification of the cosmological “universes” of the communities of the Carrazeda de Ansiães Plateau during Late prehistory. We also highlight the christian markings of most of the rock engraved sites and the chronological and cultural relationship of the plateau with the neighbouring areas during Late prehistory., O presente trabalho visa dar a conhecer de forma mais aprofundada os sítios com arte rupestre da Pré-história recente do Planalto de Carrazeda de Ansiães, maioritariamente conhecidos na bibliografia. O Planalto de Carrazeda de Ansiães é um território rico do ponto de vista arqueológico. No entanto, inexplicavelmente, nunca se implementaram aqui projetos de investigação baseados no estudo sistemático, no terreno, que se debruçassem sobre o povoamento pré-histórico. Seguindo os pressupostos da Arqueologia da Paisagem, realizámos um trabalho de relocalização dos sítios conhecidos e da prospeção da sua envolvente. No caso dos sítios com arte rupestre realizamos fichas descritivas que incluem a relação topográfica dos sítios com o território, tendo procedido ainda à sua caraterização na componente gráfica, baseada em decalques parcelares. Visou-se assim estabelecer a relação dos sítios com arte rupestre com outras estações arqueológicas, na busca do povoamento do Planalto de Carrazeda de Ansiães durante a Pré-história recente (IV, III e eventualmente, II mil. AC). O estudo dos grafismos rupestres do conjunto dos sítios permitiu delinear as suas caraterísticas gráficas, formalismos, associações e traçar as principais linhas de força no que concerne à identficação dos “universos” cosmológicos das comunidades do Planalto de Carrazeda de Ansiães durante a Pré-história recente. É ainda destacada a marcação cristã da maioria dos sítios com gravura rupestre e ainda a relação cronológica e cultural do Planalto com os territórios vizinhos durante a Pré-história recente.

The characterization of materials used in the construction of megalithic monuments can be considered a key aspect for a better understanding of the social behavior of past societies. The excavation of four dolmens and one small cist in 2015 at the megalithic necropolis of Panoria (Granada, Spain) offered an excellent opportunity to explore the geological properties and potential source area(s) of the uprights used in their construction. All the stone slabs came from the same raw material: fine-grained, beige to pink limestones that occasionally show red and black chert nodules, with wavy stratifications and a packstone texture. Comparison with the geological properties of the surrounding outcrops matches a lithostratigraphy known as the Ammonitico Rosso Formation. Thus, it seems safe to say that the quarry area was located next to the necropolis. Explanations other than the traditional practical reasons have been put forward to understand why the stone slabs were quarried from the same mountain in which the tombs were located.

e present work aims to make known, with more depth, the rock art sites of Late prehistory of the Carrazeda de Ansiães Plateau, mostly known in the bibliography. e Carrazeda de Ansiães Plateau is a rich territory from the archaeological point of view. However, inexplicably, there were never implemented here research projects based on systematic study, on the ground that looked about the prehistoric settlement. Following the assumptions of Landscape Archaeology, we have done a job of relocation of the known sites and the prospection of their surroundings. In the case of rock-art sites we’ve performed descriptions that included the topographic relationship of the sites with the territory, having added to our characterization the graphical component, based on partial decals. We aimed to establish the relationship of rock-art sites with other archaeological sites, in the pursuit of the settlement on the Carrazeda de Ansiães Plateau during Late prehistory (IV, III and eventually, II mil. BC). e study of the graphics of the rock-art sites allowed us to outline their graphic characteristics, formalisms, associations and to draw the main lines of force with regard to the identification of the cosmological “universes” of the communities of the Carrazeda de Ansiães Plateau during Late prehistory. We also highlight the christian markings of most of the rock engraved sites and the chronological and cultural relationship of the plateau with the neighbouring areas during Late prehistory., O presente trabalho visa dar a conhecer de forma mais aprofundada os sítios com arte rupestre da Pré-história recente do Planalto de Carrazeda de Ansiães, maioritariamente conhecidos na bibliografia. O Planalto de Carrazeda de Ansiães é um território rico do ponto de vista arqueológico. No entanto, inexplicavelmente, nunca se implementaram aqui projetos de investigação baseados no estudo sistemático, no terreno, que se debruçassem sobre o povoamento pré-histórico. Seguindo os pressupostos da Arqueologia da Paisagem, realizámos um trabalho de relocalização dos sítios conhecidos e da prospeção da sua envolvente. No caso dos sítios com arte rupestre realizamos fichas descritivas que incluem a relação topográfica dos sítios com o território, tendo procedido ainda à sua caraterização na componente gráfica, baseada em decalques parcelares. Visou-se assim estabelecer a relação dos sítios com arte rupestre com outras estações arqueológicas, na busca do povoamento do Planalto de Carrazeda de Ansiães durante a Pré-história recente (IV, III e eventualmente, II mil. AC). O estudo dos grafismos rupestres do conjunto dos sítios permitiu delinear as suas caraterísticas gráficas, formalismos, associações e traçar as principais linhas de força no que concerne à identficação dos “universos” cosmológicos das comunidades do Planalto de Carrazeda de Ansiães durante a Pré-história recente. É ainda destacada a marcação cristã da maioria dos sítios com gravura rupestre e ainda a relação cronológica e cultural do Planalto com os territórios vizinhos durante a Pré-história recente.

Freshwater shell remains in late prehistoric faunal assemblages of Southeastern Europe have often been neglected and usually just counted, while their species level was rarely determined. Based on ethnographic data, they were usually interpreted as remnants of additional food resources, but also as food for pigs and as fish baits. Several pits filled with unionid shells have been dug up in 2012, in the course of protective archaeological excavations of late prehistoric settlements located at the shore of the River Klepečka, near its confluence with the Danube (in the surroundings of the later Roman city of Viminacium). According to other archaeological finds, the pits were dated to the Early Bronze Age. The assemblage of more than 1000 valves offered an opportunity for a detailed morphometric study of mollusk remains. The research included taxonomic identification, specific measurements of each valve and recording of taphonomic data, such as shell color, fragmentation and artificial modifications. Three species have been identified: Unio crassus, Unio pictorum, and Unio tumidus. We discuss whether the species significantly differ according to their length, breadth and height, as well as morphological traits of the hinge area. According to contextual and overall distribution we will discuss possible cultural preference towards these three species in prehistory. Finally, based on contextual data and taphonomic features, we will discuss their purpose and significance within the studied settlement. The results will be placed in regional and temporal context in order to suggest freshwater shell significance in the life of people who occupied Southeastern Europe in late prehistory.

Con el objetivo de ofrecer una primera aproximación a cuestiones tan fundamentales como el número de estaciones que conforman el fenómeno rupestre gallego, su composición temática o su distribución geográfica, hemos llevado a cabo un vaciado del Preinventario del Servizo de Arqueoloxía de la Dirección Xeral do Patrimonio Cultural de la Xunta de Galicia. La base de datos obtenida ha sido analizada posteriormente por medio de sistemas de información geográfica y software estadístico. En la actualidad, se conocen un total de 3.374 estaciones rupestres distribuidas de modo desigual a lo largo del territorio gallego. Su análisis evidencia el dominio absoluto de las figuras geométricas frente a las naturalistas, pero también la existencia de una considerable heterogeneidad que se manifiesta no sólo en la densidad de petroglifos, sino también en la frecuencia relativa de motivos, en su tendencia a comparecer o no de modo conjunto en los mismos paneles o en la propia implantación de las rocas grabadas en el paisaje., With the aim of offering a first approach to issues of such importance as the number of sites that make up the Galician rock art, their iconographic variability or geographical distribution, we have analysed the official archaeological inventory of the Galician autonomous government (Servizo de Arqueoloxía da la Dirección Xeral do Patrimonio Cultural de la Xunta de Galicia). The database obtained was subsequently analyzed by using Geographic Information System and statistical software. The results show how, nowadays, there is a total of 3,374 known petroglyphs unevenly distributed across the Galician territory. Our analysis shows an absolute predominance of geometric motifs over the naturalists, but it also hints at the existence of a remarkable heterogeneity, which becomes patent not only in the density of petroglyphs, but also in the relative frequency of motifs and their tendency to appear or not together on the same panels or with respect to the location of rock art sites on the landscape.

The rock engravings of Pendilla were discovered in 1970 and later documented by José Manuel González and the author of this paper. A few years later, a significant part of those engraved rocks were destroyed when the path from Pendilla to Propinde was widened and transformed into a mining and livestock track. Before the destruction, there were around twenty engraved rocks, all of them in the area of Pontón de Fornillos, a junction between the Castilian Meseta and the Asturian territory in the traditional path network across the Pasos de Arbás range. We found pecked and hammered engravings, many of which were cupules, cruciforms and horseshoe shapes, alongside significant antropomorfic motifs and phi-shaped patterns. In addition to these topics, with a probable prehistoric or protohistoric chronology, there were inscriptions and other representations from historical ages. All of them demonstrate that this place has been walked since Late Prehistory up to the present. Data and graphic documentation about these engraved rocks have remained unpublished until now., Los grabados rupestres de Pendilla fueron descubiertos en 1970 y documentados más tarde por José Manuel González y el firmante de este artículo. El conjunto, destruido en gran parte por el ensanche como pista minera y ganadera del camino que ascendía desde Pendilla hacia Propinde, se distribuía a lo largo de una veintena de rocas en torno al llamado Pontón de Fornillos, nudo de comunicación de pasos tradicionales entre la meseta y el territorio asturiano a través de la sierra de los Pasos de Arbás. Se documentaron grabados piqueteados con presencia mayoritaria de cazoletas, herraduras y cruciformes, junto a significativos motivos antropomórficos y diseños en phi. Además de estos temas, de probable cronología prehistórica o protohistórica, aparecían inscripciones y otras representaciones de tiempos históricos, que darían cuenta del tránsito y uso del lugar desde la Prehistoria reciente hasta épocas modernas. La documentación gráfica y los datos referidos a este conjunto han permanecido inéditos hasta la fecha.