Pierluigi Rosina

In the Western Iberian Peninsula, staircases of fluvial terraces have been the subject of several recent studies. In particular, many recent publications have focused on the Quaternary fluvial chronostratigraphy of the Lower Tagus Basin. However, there are still doubts with respect to the timing of the first incision into the late Tertiary basin-fill deposits, their upper part already recording a fluvial environment (‘basin inversion’), which was the start of terrace formation. This is because most dating methods are ineffective for this type of deposit (generally without organic and/or volcanic materials). In the last 10 years, new dating methods such as electron spin resonance (ESR) applied to sedimentary quartz now facilitate more accurate chronologies. This paper presents the results of the ESR dating of the older terraces of the lower Tagus Basin, Portugal, with extrapolation on the age of early drainage network evolution. According the results, the oldest fluvial terrace was formed around 900 ka, so the origination of the Portuguese Tagus River terrace system can be attributed to the final part of the Early Pleistocene.

The Ndalambiri rock shelter in the Ebo region of Angola is a key site for assessing human occupation there given its potential association between stratigraphic contexts and rock art panels. Focusing on the Iron Age and European contact periods, this study characterised the site’s rock paintings using Raman spectroscopy, while also obtaining AMS radiocarbon dates from paint residues and charcoal collected in stratigraphic context during a trial excavation below one of the painted panels. Raman spectroscopy results revealed the use of a carbon-based pigment (charcoal?), haematite and calcite to prepare black, red and white paints respectively. AMS dating of a black paint sample showed that it was produced between the seventeenth and the twentieth centuries, corresponding to the last known phase of rock art production in the area, as further indicated by its stratigraphic position and the depiction of firearms at the site. Earlier occupation of the site associated with metallurgical activity was dated to the mid-first millennium AD and may suggest that the oldest rock art at Ndalambiri corresponds to the arrival of metal-using populations in the region.

Micro-Raman spectroscopic technique allowed the characterization of organic and inorganic pigments of different colours sampled from a rock-art shelter named Abrigo del Aguila, located in the district of Badajoz, Cabeza del Buey (Extremadura-Spain). Micro-Raman analyses has been coupled with SEM observation and elemental analyses (EDS). The white and the black colours, used for non-representative figures, have been identified respectively as anatase and amorphous carbon, while two different type of red pigment has been found on figurative representations. The darker one, sampled, from a sun-figure, comprises an indeterminate organic compound beside of hematite. The second one, sampled from an anthropomorphic figure, is of a brilliant red and only hematite has been recognized in it.

La Serena region is a large plateau with open landscapes bounded in the south by a mountain chain formed by the Benquerencia, Tiros and La Rinconada Sierras. There are more than 300 painted and engraved sites in the region. Cueva Grande, Cueva de En medio and Cueva Pequeña are three Schematic rock art shelters located in the municipality of Benquerencia de la Serena, Badajoz, Spain. Over their panels have been documented more than a hundred of painted schematic figures (anthropomorphic figures, eye-shape figures and symbols) (Neolithic –Copper Age). Paintings are monochromatic with red or black coloration. A total of 13 samples (10 red and 3 black samples) from different panels were collected and analyzed using micro-Raman spectroscopy and ATR-FTIR. Micro-Raman spectroscopy was able to characterize the main mineral component, respectively hematite for the red figures and charcoal for the black paintings. ATR-FTIR was useful to possible ochre and possible organic identification. These latest results are particularly important for understanding manufacturing processes and addressing conservation problems.

Workshop Report on the International Meeting on Paleoclimate: change and adaptation (Coimbra, 2019) - Portugal

Pigments from several preHistoric rock art painting samples were analysed through a multiproxy archaeometric approach. Sampling occurred in two rockshelters within the National Park of Serra da Capivara National Park area (a UNESCO World Heritage Site): Toca do Paraguaio and Toca do Boqueirão da Pedra Furada. Five complementary techniques x-ray micro-fluorescence, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, stereomicro-scope observation and high temperature-gas chromatography (HT-GC) were combined to identify and characterise the inorganic and organic material. In particular, gas-chromatography analyses revealed the presence of binders, hardly recognised in rock art preHistoric pigments. These binder substances (plant fatty acids) could be included in the pigment process 'chain-opératoire'.

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New vertebrate and invertebrate fossilized remains are reported herein from the basal deposits (marls, sands and gravels) of Papo-Seco Formation (Lower Barremian, Lower Cretaceous) Cabo Espichel (Sesimbra, south of Lisbon), in coordinates 38°24′50.8″N 9°13′20.8″W (fig. 1). Papo-Seco formation lies between Areias do Mastro Formation and Boca do Chapim Formation (Manupella et al., 1999). The very first palaeontological investigations in Papo-Seco Formation took place in the 19th century (Figueiredo et al., 2015, 2016). The geological survey that followed at Papo-Seco Formation (Boca do Chapim) produced a variety of fossilized material such as dinosaurian and crocodilian teeth (Sauvage, 1898). This study is based on a collection of vertebrate fossils from Areias do Mastro (fig. 1), currently located in the palaeontological collection of Centro Português de Geo-História e Pré-História (CPGP). These materials resulted after survey between 1998 and 2016 at the cliffs of Areias do Mastro. After their transportation to the laboratory of CPGP, the fossil materials were cleaned, treated and restored, photographed and measured according to the laboratory's protocol. Following, a taxonomic study took place, during which, the main characteristics of the studied fossils underwent through comparative analysis and identification. Herein we present a correlation between the taxonomic identification and the paleoenvironment that the identified organisms lived in. We also present a sedimentary analysis and its respective interpretation according to the previous information retrieved.

New vertebrate and invertebrate fossilized remains are reported herein from the basal deposits (marls, sands and gravels) of Papo-Seco Formation (Lower Barremian, Lower Cretaceous) Cabo Espichel (Sesimbra, south of Lisbon), in coordinates 38°24′50.8″N 9°13′20.8″W (fig. 1). Papo-Seco formation lies between Areias do Mastro Formation and Boca do Chapim Formation (Manupella et al., 1999). The very first palaeontological investigations in Papo-Seco Formation took place in the 19th century (Figueiredo et al., 2015, 2016). The geological survey that followed at Papo-Seco Formation (Boca do Chapim) produced a variety of fossilized material such as dinosaurian and crocodilian teeth (Sauvage, 1898). This study is based on a collection of vertebrate fossils from Areias do Mastro (fig. 1), currently located in the palaeontological collection of Centro Português de Geo-História e Pré-História (CPGP). These materials resulted after survey between 1998 and 2016 at the cliffs of Areias do Mastro. After their transportation to the laboratory of CPGP, the fossil materials were cleaned, treated and restored, photographed and measured according to the laboratory's protocol. Following, a taxonomic study took place, during which, the main characteristics of the studied fossils underwent through comparative analysis and identification. Herein we present a correlation between the taxonomic identification and the paleoenvironment that the identified organisms lived in. We also present a sedimentary analysis and its respective interpretation according to the previous information retrieved.

Foreword Climate is the planetary response of the atmospheric circulation to its changing composition, to the solar system configuration, to the Earth’s rotation and to the oceans’ and continents’ distributions. It displays, as a result, a restless moving pattern, expressed at a global scale by subsiding and uplifting convection cells. These changes have long been recognized and documented in geologic objects of all ages. In many rocks, different geologic features, fossil fragments and imprints, prehistoric remains and historic reports, there is a climate signal that can be analyzed and interpreted. All that information should be gathered in order to learn more about past climate changes. Lessons from the past support the view that deep change is the rule, not the exception, even where no reference is available, due to strongly contrasting extremes, chaotically defined by the whole ensemble of extra-planetary, external, and internal geodynamic controls. Science-based knowledge is crucial to face current challenges, which are focus for research within the UNESCO chair on Geoparks, Sustainable Regional Development and Healthy Lifestyles and the UNESCO chair on Humanities and Cultural Integrated Landscape Management, both partners in this international meeting, which has been organized by the Geosciences Centre and the Centre for Earth and Space Research of the University of Coimbra. This volume records the contribution of about seventy ongoing projects developed by research teams with a wide range of scientific backgrounds from different regions of the planet, who met at the University of Coimbra on the 18th-19th June 2019. The enriching discussions on paleoclimates in the Solar System, climate changes in geological time, climate memory in the geological record, climate changes and human adaptations throughout the Quaternary, and climatic events and human-environment interactions in the Holocene, indicate that the main objective underlying this initiative will have been fulfilled: to stimulate an observational attitude and to promote an open discussion on paleoclimatic signals in order to improve our look at the present and to ground future perspectives. The Organizing Committee International Meeting on Paleoclimate: Change and Adaptation University of Coimbra, 18th-19th June 2019

In this study, a collection of 29 samples of possible pigments, binders and carrying agents were selected based on artistic considerations and analysed with ATR Fourier-trans- form infrared spectroscopy in order to determine usable marker bands for each ingredient. It was decided to establish a preliminary and specific database for ATR-FTIR applied to pre-historic rock art that can be compared with other existing databases and then applied and com- pared with data on field research.

The contemporary understanding that heritage comprises the whole bio and geosphere, due to the direct or indirect anthropic impact all over the planet, allows for a global understanding of heritage that pervades all domains of sustainability research. The current debate on the so-called Anthropocene calls for revisiting past strategies of humans-environment disruptive episodes, in order to better understand the global implications of everyday actions and the wider implications of the interactions between technology and sociocultural structure. This paper discusses how low demographic density territories may offer the best examples of integrated responses, engaging geosciences as a backbone for interaction with tourism, technology, or societal strategies.

The purpose of this paper is to present the studies of a fragment of an ulna and a humerus of a cf. Coelurosaurus, discovery in Areias do Mastro (Cabo Espichel – Sesimbra, Portugal). It has been reported several remains of dinosaurs and other reptiles since de 19th century, in this area of Cabo Espichel. During the campaigns of palaeontologic prospecting made by the CPGP team were found several vertebrates remains, such as fragments of shields of turtle, teeth of crocodiles, fishes and pterosaurs, as well as several bones and teeth of dinosaurs. In the first campaigns (1999 – 2000) were found two remains (in a different layers) of bones of the arm of a bird or a dromaeosauridae dinosaur. Now we present the results of the studies of these remains.

O modelo sobre o qual a arqueologia cresceu, em Portugal e em alguns outros países, nas últimas duas décadas, foi alimentado por um afluxo de verbas essencialmente orientado para a preservação e valorização patrimonial, com crescente desinteresse pela pesquisa. O ocaso da arqueologia comercial cruza-se com o estrangulamento das bases institucionais da pesquisa: ensino superior, museus, centros de pesquisa e associações. Propõe-se uma agenda para repensar e relembrar para que pode servir a arqueologia, para além do apoio à gestão patrimonial: a dimensão temporal, os métodos de reconstrução espacial, a integração entre geociências e humanidades, a orientação para a cultura material, a inserção de jovens na praxis da ciência, ...

We present a new dinosaur footprint from Praia do Guincho, Portugal. Praia do Guincho is a seaside locality, situated 2 km north of Cabo Espichel. A loose cast of a tridactyl dinosaur footprint was discovered during fieldwork in 2011. The cliff where the footprint was found is composed of limestones, marls, sandstones and conglomerates that were deposited in shallow marine, lagoon and estuarine environments. The succession belongs to the Papo-Seco Formation (Lower Cretaceous-Barremian). The remains of several groups of vertebrates, including dinosaurs, have been reported in this formation. This paper provides a trackmaker study consisting of a visual analysis under different light angles and photogrammetric 3D modelling. The specimen has a digit III longer than II and IV. However, a substantial part of the shape of digit III is sediment, giving a flawed impression that it belongs to the footprint itself. The photogrammetric modelling revealed that digit III is shorter and more rounded than it appeared to be in the first place and the morphology of the cast (large plantar surface, similar length and width rounded heel, with elongate, narrow digits) matches with the features of the pes of ornithopods and with the characteristics described as belonging to ornithopod dinosaurs.

The lithic assemblage of Ribeira da Ponte da Pedra site (OIS8-9) was produced, almost exclusively, through the exploitation of good quality quartzite fluvial pebbles with a regular morphology. Quartzite fluvial pebbles are the most common raw material found in the Middle Pleistocene occupation sites in Portugal. Such feature results from the easy availability of these pebbles in the valleys where the great majority of the archaeological sites within this chronology are located, and also because of the quartzite’s physical properties and suitability for knapping. In a techno-typological point of view, its lithic assemblage is characterized by the application of two main reduction sequences that result in abundant worked pebbles, retouched pebbles, cortical and semi-cortical flakes, retouched flakes, a few cores and rare bifacial artefacts. Some artefacts present irregular and variable edge modifications described as ‘atypical’ edge modifications that could edge damage resultant from their utilization. From a strictly technical point of view the assemblage can be described as quite simple, however we can envisage an inherent complexity starting in an accurate selection and exploitation of the quartzite pebbles, whose regular morphology allows a ‘predetermined’ production of regular blanks through simple actions. In order to better understand patterns of raw material selection and technical schemes adopted in the exploitation of the quartzite pebbles we compared a sample of pebbles collected in the same deposits identified in the site (t4 fluvial terrace deposits) with worked pebbles that have 1 or 2 removals that had not altered significantly the original morpho-volumetry of the pebbles. The goal of this comparison was to verify if there was a selection of the fluvial pebbles based on texture and morpho-volumetry and if so, relate such selection with the technical schemes identified by technological study of the assemblage.

The Alto Ribatejo (central Portugal) is a sub-region with an important amount of data for the study of the neolithisation process. Some aspects related to contexts and chronologies, vegetation dynamics, palaeoeconomy and art records are reviewed. Published interpretations and models are discussed taking account of existing data, allowing pointing out some research problems and future directions.

This study is based on a two works already published in which it is described the paleo-environmental context of a number of vertebrate remains found in 6 layers. New vertebrate and invertebrate remains are reported from the basal deposits (marls, sands and gravels) of Papo-Seco Formation (Lower Barremian, Lower Cretaceous) of Areias do Mastro, nearby Cabo Espichel, Sesimbra, south of Lisbon. The studied layers were formed in an environment of shallow-marine features (lagoon, estuary). Recent paleontological inspection generated several vertebrate and invertebrate remains, including shells and trace fossils (casts and molds) of gastropods and bivalves; after examination, there were identified bones and teeth of fish, crocodiles, dinosaurs, pterosaurs and turtle shell fragments. The new data constitute an important contribution to the knowledge of vertebrate paleo-diversity for the environment during the Lower Cretaceous of Portugal.

Os estudos arqueológicos sugerem padrões tecnológicos e de liquidação de recorrências e/ou convergências durante a transição do Pleistoceno-Holoceno. A fim de compreender melhor a sequência de ocupações humanas na região do Alto Ribatejo do Tejo inferior, um estudo geoarqueológico foi realizado, incluindo a caracterização sedimentológica de depósitos, a análise estratigráfica e a sua ligação com os contextos arqueológicos. O estudo sedimentar envolveu trabalhos de campo e de laboratório (análises de tamanho de grão e difração de raios X de agregados orientados para a identificação de minerais de argila). Um amplo espaço de tempo foi considerado, à procura de possíveis tendências dentro de uma determinada região de Portugal, o Alto Ribatejo. A fim de resolver esta questão, foram realizados estudos em diferentes depósitos: fluviais, coluviais, eólicos, eluviais e de origem antrópica. Este artigo apresenta os resultados de um estudo com base principalmente em sítios arqueológicos de ar livre que pertencem a diferentes fases culturais: do Paleolítico Superior, Epipaleolítico, Neolítico e Calcolítico. Os dados apoiam a interpretação de que as condições de clima frio do intervalo ~ 32 a 12 ka, gerando principalmente sedimentos coluviais e depósitos eólicos. Condições húmidas ou secas (temperadas) que levaram a mudanças nas paisagens culturais durante o Holoceno.

O alto rio Uruguai é uma área importante para compreender o povoamento pré-histórico da bacia do rio da Prata. Nela foram localizados sítios de caçadores-coletores, referentes ao passado mais antigo da região, e de grupos ceramistas relacionados às unidades arqueológicas Tupiguarani e Taquara-Itararé. Este artigo apresenta os primeiros resultados das pesquisas realizadas no sítio ACH-LP-07 situado próximo à foz do rio Chapecó na margem direita do rio Uruguai, no oeste de Santa Catarina. O mesmo apresentou várias ocupações por caçadores-coletores no início do Holoceno, caracterizadas por uma variabilidade nas produções de pedra lascada, onde se destaca a produção de lâminas por uma debitagem específica. No último milênio o local também foi povoado por grupos ceramistas Guarani. O sítio tem trazido diferentes contribuições a respeito dessas antigas sociedades, especialmente as modalidades de ocupação e de sucessão dos grupos humanos no alto rio Uruguai.

New vertebrate and invertebrate remains are reported from the basal deposits (marls, sands and gravels) of Papo-Seco Formation (Lower Barremian, Lower Cretaceous) of Areias do Mastro, nearby Cabo Espichel, Sesimbra, south of Lisbon. The studied layers were formed in an environment of shallow-marine features (lagoon, estuary). Recent paleontological inspection generated several vertebrate and invertebrate remains, including shells and trace fossils (casts and molds) of gastropods and bivalves; after examination, there were identified bones and teeth of fish, crocodiles, dinosaurs, pterosaurs and turtle shell fragments. The new data constitute an important contribution to the knowledge of vertebrate paleo-diversity for the environment during the Lower Cretaceous of Portugal.

The Middle Palaeolithic site of Foz do Enxarrique is located on the right bank of the Tagus River at the mouth of the Enxarrique stream. The excavations revealed a single archaeological level together with a large lithic assemblage associated with a relatively small amount of bones and teeth of large mammals. Uraniumseries determinations on equid and bovid teeth provide an average date of 33.600 ±500 BP. The use-wear analysis was conducted on 110 lithic artefacts selected from the finds found in the central area of the excavation. During the use-wear study were analysed all the unretouched flakes with potential functional edges, good surface preservation and showing the presence of removals and/or roundings localized on the edges of the artefacts, thus indicating ancient use. Despite of the good condition of the lithic artefacts and the relatively good preservation of the faunal remains, it is clear that the material has been slightly reworked by to geological and biological factors. The use-wear study shows that the assemblage is dominated by tools with traces of activities linked to the acquisition and processing of animal carcasses but there are also tools with traces linked to the processing of other materials (such as skin and wood). According with the data obtained from the use-wear analysis and from the other studies carried out, we can conclude that the site of Foz do Enxarrique is probably a hunting camp or more likely a medium term occupations base camp, related to seasonal river floods.

The footprint was found free in the middle of the sediment and was at the beginning of the stratigraphicalsequence of the Papo-SecoFormation, slightly below an outcropping with characteristics similar to those of the footprint.

We present a new record of a dinosaur footprint from the Lower Cretaceous of Cabo Espichel. The footprint was found free in the middle of the sediment and was at the beginning of the stratigraphicalsequence of the Papo-SecoFormation, slightly below an outcropping with characteristics similar to those of the footprint.

Il progetto “Baragge biellesi”, avviato nel 2015, ha l’intento di sviluppare un modello di ricerca integrata (survey, rilevamento geo-morfologico tramite elaborazione di immagini satellitari e di immagini acquisite da droni a controllo remoto) per la caratterizzazione delle aree con potenziale presenza di contesti archeologici preistorici nelle Baragge della Provincia di Biella (Piemonte), tra la Serra d’Ivrea e il fiume Sesia . Questa indagine preliminare rientra nell’attività di ricerca per lo studio, la valorizzazione e la divulgazione del Paleolitico e Mesolitico del Piemonte denominato “Progetto Piemonte paleomesolitico”, nato nel 2013 con lo scopo di contribuire a colmare il gap esistente nella ricerca scientifica relativa al popolamento preistorico del Piemonte.

Recent investigations within Cathole Cave have revealed several rock engravings that date from the Upper Palaeolithic including a stylised cervid, possibly a reindeer and, as yet indistinguishable engravings above and below the cervid. In advance of the erection of a protective steel grille in 2014, several archaeological trenches revealed evidence of anthropogenic and palaeozoomorphic activity which probably dates from a period when much of the northern and western parts of the British Isles was covered by ice. In November 2010, one of the authors (GHN) discovered the presence of a possible haematite (Fe203) spread that occupied a small section of the western wall of the main gallery of the cave. This spread was either the result of natural secretion from the substrate or it was applied via human agency. No other possible haematite spreads existed within this particular cave, although haematite is common throughout the limestone caves of the Gower Peninsula. In 2015 the Welsh heritage agency Cadw awarded a generous grant for the possible haematite spread to be sampled and chemically analysed, and for an overlying speleothem coat to be dated using uranium-series disequilibrium methods. This paper reports on the fieldwork and the first phase of laboratory research that included Raman Spectrometry, Scanning Electron Microscope analysis (SEM) and thin-section analysis on samples of loose substrate. The results of this phase of work confirm that the samples taken from Cathole Cave may be the result of pigment application.

New vertebrate remains reported from the Papo-Seco Formation (Lower Barremian, Lower Cretaceous) of Areias do Mastro, in Cabo Espichel, SW Portugal, south of Lisbon. The marine, lagoonal, and estuarine limestones, marls, sands and gravels have yielded remains of dinosaurs and other reptiles since the 19th century. Recent paleontological prospecting produced several vertebrate remains, including turtle shell fragments, crocodilian teeth, fish and pterosaurs. Research identified both bones and teeth of fish, crocodiles, dinosaurs Baryonyx and iguanodontian, as well as a ctenochasmatoid pterosaur, and a possible ornithocheirid pterosaur. These new disclosures are an important contribution to the knowledge of vertebrate diversity from the Portuguese Cretaceous. Faunal species combination proven to be similar to other faunal associations of Barremian formations in the Iberian Peninsula. © 2015, Universidad Complutense de Madrid. All Rights Reserved.

This study provides a characterization of the alluvial deposits on the basis of grain-size and clay mineralogy of the Wari-Bateshwar. Field work allowed to examine several stratigraphic sections and to identify several sedimentary units; some of them containing artifacts. During the late Holocene (<3000 yrs BP), this area was already dominated by fluvial processes of transport and deposition. It is also found that archaeological materials have been relocated and modified by low energy flood events during pre-occupational, occupational and post-depositional phases. The identification of mineral composition shows three types of clay minerals, dominated by illite and kaolinite, indicating similar climatic conditions to the present ones. The clay minerals, however, suggest a depositional environment that was dominated by fluvial dynamics and changes. On the basis of this study, it has also been hypothesized that if there is a chronological gap between the 'early historic' and 'early medieval' settlements in the area, some of the key factors for the abandonment of the settlement could be related to changes in the alluvial environment. The paper also strengthens the potential for further studies regarding the beginning, development, abandonment and reoccupation of the settlements in the area within a geoarchaeological framework.

Foi solicitado, pela EFACEC, que uma equipa do Centro Português de Geo-História e Pré-História se deslocasse a uma zona onde se irá implantar um parque eólico, pois tinha sido detetada, nessa área, num aforamento calcário, a presença de fósseis. Numa primeira vista foi confirmada a existência de fósseis nesse afloramento. Trata-se um conjunto de fósseis de invertebrados marinhos mesozoicos, onde predominam as amonites. A Serra da Boa Viagem é uma estrutura essencialmente calcária bem característica da área a norte do Rio Mondego. De facto, embora o seu ponto mais alto atinja somente os 258 m, representa a zona mais elevada nas proximidades da Figueira da Foz e do Cabo Mondego. A sua morfologia resulta dos movimentos tectónicos do Mesozoico que levantaram os depósitos marinhos, a maioria de plataforma continental, durante a abertura do Oceano Atlântico. A estrutura é constituída por estratos de rochas jurássicas dispostas em camadas regulares/paralelas – moniclinal – com direção WNW-ESE e pendor sub-vertical (até os 70º) em direção a Sul. Por consequência, as camadas mais antigas são as do lado Norte da Serra. A área do projetado parque eólico da Serra da Boa Viagem (Buarcos) situa-se numa das cristas desta serra, a uma quota de cerca de 200 metros de altura. Na área proposta pela implantação dos aerogeradores existem várias unidades geológicas do Jurássico Médio (Dogger).

This paper explores the processes involved in the production of prehistoric paintings using inorganic pigmentation. The focus for discussion involves a number of rock-shelter sites that contain rock art within the western part of the Iberian Peninsula, with particular reference to the sites that contain Schematic rock art. A direct date cannot be obtained on rock art that is made with inorganic pigments. However, sampling and subsequent analysis has clearly shown that pigments were produced using tried and tested recipes that involved the use of sometimes organic binders. This paper will explore the chemical and mineralogical qualities of sampled pigments from a selected number of sites within Spain and Portugal and suggest that pigmentation was more than just applying paint to rock.

The Quaternary and Prehistory Group of the Geosciences Centre has deve‐ loped research lines dedicated to the influence of climatic and environmental conditions in human behavioral dynamics during the Holocene. The research in the Alto Ribatejo (TEMPOAR I/II and Transition Landscapes projects) suggests a possible socio‐economic implication (adoption of agro‐pastoralism) due to the climatic fluctuations in the Holocene. A new project is being prepared, dedicated to the relationship between human behaviour and climate fluctuations. The starting point is the analysis of different bioregional realities (Brazil, Portugal, Spain) between the start of the Younger Dryas and the end of the Atlan‐ tic period, taking an interdisciplinary approach through archaeobotanic, archaeofaunis‐ tic and sedimentological studies.

Las pinturas rupestres de la Cornisa de La Calderita (La Zarza, Badajoz) constituyen un notable con-junto parietal muy representativo del arte esquemático típico de la Península Ibérica. Situada la estación en una profunda fisura rocosa abierta en el extremo NO de la sierra de Peñas Blancas, los numerosos paneles decorados conservados en sus tres abrigos, todos ellos realizados en distintas tonalidades de rojo, reúnen un nutrido aparato iconográfico en el que se combinan y asocian figuras de muy diversas tipologías y técnicas de realización. En el año 2009, en el ámbito de un proyecto promovido por la Dirección General de Patrimonio de la Junta de Extremadura, se llevaron a cabo diversas actuaciones en la estación destinadas a la puesta en valor del enclave me-diante una serie de labores previas de documentación arqueológica como base para el planeamiento e instalación de estructuras reversibles de señalización y adecuación a la visita pública. A la limpieza sistemática de los paneles pictóricos sucedieron un renovado proceso de documentación gráfica, haciendo uso de las más recientes metodo-logías de documentación fotográfica y tratamiento digital del arte rupestre, así como un estudio completo de sus numerosos paneles. Al mismo tiempo, se realizó un levantamiento topográfico del abrigo, un análisis detallado del soporte y de los pigmentos a partir de la toma de muestras, y una serie de sondeos arqueológicos en diferentes zo-nas del abrigo de cara a la caracterización contextual y cronológica de las pictografías de la estación. Este proceso de documentación culminó en abril de 2013 con la realización de un escaneado 3D del conjunto principal. En el presente artículo nos proponemos dar a conocer dichas actuaciones, y exponer las primeras conclusiones provisionales de la investigación, actualmente en proceso de publicación, obtenidas a partir del proceso descrito de documentación.

Monfragüe National Park (Cáceres) preserved a very important schematic rock art complex with more than a hundred shelters with postpalaeolithic paintings and engravings. In this paper we’ll provide an advance of our last research campaigns conclusions carried out in the Arroyo Barbaón sector (Serradilla). We have proceeded to the digital documentation of 29 rock art shelter figures. Furthermore, through the archaeological excavation inside Cueva del Sapo, which have provided some pottery fragments and stone tools as well as bonfire remains, we try to get the archaeological context for the rock art complex. Finally, the finding of a small detached fragment with some traces in red in the Friso del Terror shelter, has allowed the analysis to characterize the pigment that was used. The goal was to provide accurate information about technical issues, chronology and functionality of schematic rock art in this natural park in Cáceres province.

Resumen: La estación rupestre " Friso del Terror " (Parque Nacional de Monfrague, Cáceres, España) comprende más de cincuenta paneles decorados, donde fueron identificadas series y agrupaciones de barras verticales junto a figuras antropomorfas. En el arroyo Barbaón se ha puesto recientemente en práctica un planteamiento metodológico enfocado desde el punto de vista de la caracterización de los pigmentos (su composición mineral, materias primas, aglutinantes orgá-nicos, etc.). La reconstrucción de sus procesos de elaboración constituye el objetivo de la investigación. Un fragmento desprendido de forma natural, con representación de dos barras pintadas de color rojo (Collado et al., 2011), fue recuperado aplicándose a esta muestra técnicas de caracterización como la espectroscopia micro-Raman, la microfluorescencia-x y análisis microestratigráfico. La observación de la sección transversal microestratigráfica reveló el posicionamiento del sustrato de cuarcita, la capa de pigmento rojo y una secuencia de concreciones y adiciones. Los análisis por microfluorescencia-x de las muestras de pigmentos muestran que el compuesto químico principal es el hierro. Los análisis de espectroscopia micro-Raman evidencio que el pigmento " ocre rojizo " fue procesado con hematita, se trata de la sustancia más común empleada en la elaboración de pigmentos rojizos en el arte rupestre de la Península Ibérica (Hernanz et al., 2010; Pike et al., 2012; Nuevo et al., 2012).El único material orgánico reconocido, el carbón vegetal, parece estar relacionado con incendios posteriores. Los oxalatos y fosfatos de origen mineral o biológico constituyen las acreciones más comunes. Abstract: The rock art site " Friso del Terror " (Monfrague National Park, Cáceres, Spain) comprises over fifty decorated panels, which were identified series and groups of vertical bars with anthropomorphic figures. The main aim of the presented research is the characterization of pigments (mineral composition, raw materials, organic binders, etc.), and also their manufacturing processes/production and preparation. The red pigment in the Iberian Peninsula are generally prepared with iron oxides or hydroxides (Hernanz et al., 2010; Pike et al., 2012; Nuevo et al., 2012), these chromophor elements are usually associated with other minerals to form " ocher " . A natural fragment of the painted panel with the representation of two bars in red color (Collado et al., 2011) was recovered from the " Friso del Terror " ; archaeometric characterization techniques were applied to this sample such as micro-Raman spectroscopy, x-ray microfluorescency, micro-stratigraphic analysis. The observation of micro-stratigraphic cross section of the layers of rock paintings in the Friso del Terror in Mon-frague revealed the positioning of the quartzite substrate, the layer of red pigment and a sequence of concretions and accretions. The pigment sample analysis by x-ray microfluorescency shows that the main chemical compound is iron. Analysis by micro-Raman spectroscopy shows that the " red ocher " pigment was processed with iron ox-ides (hematite). The organic material identified (charcoal) seems to be associated with recent fires. Oxalates and phosphates of mineral or organic origin are the most common additions identified. Sobre rocas y huesos: las sociedades prehistóricas y sus manifestaciones plásticas

Um dos aspetos mais interessantes nos variados estudos dos pigmentos utilizados para a realização de pinturas rupestres é a seleção e manipulação das matérias-primas. Para estes estu-dos têm que ser considerados os aspetos relacionados com a disponibilidade dos materiais geoló-gicos, os aspetos culturais e os aspetos relacionados com a preservação e conservação, ou seja, a possibilidade de identificar, através de analises arqueométricas, somente parte dos pigmentos originalmente utilizados (p. ex: os componentes inorgânicos). Os estudos analíticos de pigmentos das pinturas rupestres têm como principal finalidade a identificação dos seus componentes quími-cos-mineralógicos. A determinação das matérias-primas que foram utilizadas no processamento dos pigmentos permite conhecer as tecnologias utilizadas na sua preparação.

El Parque Nacional de Monfragüe (Cáceres) conserva un importante complejo de arte rupestre formado por más de un centenar de abrigos con pinturas y grabados postpaleolíticos. En el presente trabajo vamos a dar a conocer un avance de las conclusiones obtenidas en las últimas campañas de investigación llevadas a cabo en el sector del cañón del Arroyo Barbaón (Serradilla). En él se ha procedido a la documentación digital de las representaciones pictográficas de sus 29 abrigos. Además, a través de las excavaciones realizadas en el interior de la Cueva del Sapo, que han proporcionado diversos materiales cerámicos y líticos, así como los restos de un hogar, se intenta contextualizar arqueológicamente el conjunto de arte rupestre. Finalmente, el hallazgo en el abrigo Friso del Terror de un fragmento de cuarcita desprendido que conservaba algunos trazos pintados ha permitido realizar análisis para caracterizar el pigmento que fue utilizado en su elaboración. Con estas aportaciones pretendemos una aproximación más precisa a cuestiones como las técnicas de realización, cronología y funcionalidad de la pintura esquemática en este espacio natural cacereño.

A importância das matérias-primas para a produção de pigmentos na arte rupestre está testemunhada, por exemplo, pela presença de minas de ocre documentadas na Pré-História (p. ex. LAROCCA 2008). O estudo das matérias-primas na arqueologia é necessariamente interdisciplinar, envolvendo as componentes físicas dos materiais e as componentes culturais e antropológicas. Duas questões se colocam no início de uma pesquisa desta natureza: qual o sistema de aprovisionamento utilizado e qual a evolução das técnicas que permitiram a produção de novos materiais (p. ex. cerâmica, bronze, etc.). Os estudos dos pigmentos existentes nas pinturas rupestres repartem-se sobretudo entre dois campos: análises para a identificação dos componentes químico-mineralógicos e dos processos de preparação utilizados nos pigmentos; e datações diretas (VALLADAS et al. 1999; TRUJILLO et al. 2010; PIKE et al. 2012) As matérias-primas necessárias para a produção de quase todos os tipos de tintas são constituídas por pigmentos, aglutinantes, mordentes, solventes e aditivos (p. ex resinas e óleos) (BURGIO & CLARK 2001). (1) Instituto Politécnico de Tomar. Grupo Quaternário e Pre-historia (Centro de Geociências, uI&D 73). Instituto Terra e Memória, Portugal. CIAAR, Largo do Chafariz nº 3 -2260-419, Vila Nova da Barquinha, Portugal (2) Uniarq, AAP, Portugal.

Resumo A região do Alto Ribatejo (centro de Portugal) está sob a influência das condições climáticas Mediterrânea e Atlântica. Nesta pequena região (~2.500 km 2), o Rio Tejo atravessa três unidades geomorfológicas, de paisagens muito diversificadas. Apre-senta-se uma síntese de trabalhos publicados e alguns dados sedimentológicos, pa-linológicos e arqueológicos obtidos e apresentados neste trabalho, referentes a vá-rios sítios datados dos últimos 25 mil anos. As análises sedimentológicas, aplicadas essencialmente em depósitos associados a sítios arqueológicos, parecem demonstrar a sequência da influência de variações climáticas e actividades antrópicas. Os dados arqueobotânicos sugerem modificações significativas durante o Holocénico, que po-derão estar relacionadas com as flutuações climáticas e/ou também com o crescente impacte humano sobre a paisagem com a adopção das actividades agro-pastoris.

Um dos aspetos mais interessantes nos variados estudos dos pigmentos utilizados para a realização de pinturas rupestres é a selecção e manipulação das matérias-primas. Para estes estudos têm que ser considerados os aspetos geológicos, relacionados com a disponibilidade de matérias-primas; os aspetos culturais, resultantes das diferentes tradições adotadas e finalmente, os aspetos relacionados com a conservação, ou seja, a possibilidade de encontrar somente parte dos pigmentos originalmente utilizados (p.ex: os componentes inorgânicos). No projecto RupScience (PTDC/HIS-ARQ/101299/2008) - "Análise das cadeias operatórias, arqueometria e cronologia das pinturas de Arte Rupestre" o foco da investigação é a identificação de eventuais inovações tecnológicas, essencial para o desenvolvimento de estratégias de adaptação das sociedades humanas, nomeadamente a determinação das matérias-primas que foram utilizadas nos pigmentos e das alterações que sofreram, questionando também sobre o seu estado de conservação. Nas análises realizadas nos vários ambientes (Península Ibérica e África: Etiópia, Angola) pode-se verificar que existem alguns elementos que são recorrentes (óxidos de ferro, sobretudo a hematite) e outros que são específicos de áreas geográficas particulares.

RESUMO: A arte rupestre é o estudo dos padrões de antropização da paisagem e pode ser um importante contributo para uma aproximação ao universo sócio-cultural das comuni-dades pré-históricas. A arte esquemática pintada é parte do ciclo artístico pós-Paleolítico e uma das suas características é o tipo de técnica de execução. Um conjunto de diferentes estudos complementares está a ser realizado em vários abrigos pintados em Portugal. Ainda que o foco principal seja a caracterização mineralógica dos contextualização geológica e arqueológica dos processos de produção dos pigmentos; as-painéis pintados e o estudo dos processos de degradação das pinturas. Algumas das técnicas PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Arte esquemática pintada, Portugal, Arqueometria, Espectrometria Raman, pigmentos. ABSTRACT: Rock art is the study of landscape anthropization patterns and it can be an universe. Painted schematic art is part of the post-Palaeolithic artistic cycle and one of its main features is the type of execution technique. pigments, the project also involves the study of the paintings degradation processes, iden-materials and a geological and archaeological contextualization of the pigments' processes Schematic painted art, Portugal, Archaeometry, Raman spectrometry, pigments.

Quartzite is the most common raw material in the Middle Pleistocene occupations of Portugal. We discuss the use of this raw material by presenting the technological of the lithic assemblage coming from Ribeira da Ponte da Pedra site (Portuguese middle Tagus valley) with an absolute chronology between 300 ka and 175ka. The lithic assemblage was produced, almost exclusively, over the exploitation of quartzite fluvial pebbles of good quality and is characterized by the application of two main reduction sequences that result in abundant worked pebbles, retouched pebbles, cortical and half‑cortical flakes, few cores and rare bifacial artifacts. Some artifacts present irregular and variable edge modifications described as «informal» retouch that can be the result of the utilization of these blanks.

Research has been carried out in Alto Ribatejo (central Portugal, western Iberia) with the purpose of contextualizing Late Pleistocene and Early Holocene archaeological remains within the coeval landscape. Several regional Quaternary deposits were analysed in terms of their sand fraction mineralogy (microscopic observation) and clay mineralogy (X-ray diffraction of orientated aggregates).The sedimentary record ascribed to the ~30-12 ka interval (Last Glacial and Tardi-glacial periods) is represented by colluviums and aeolian sands with predominance of illite. Illite is progressively replaced by vermiculite and some kaolinite or smectite in the upper stratigraphic levels of the Holocene deposits. The obtained data indicates cold and dry conditions during the Last Glacial/Tardi-glacial and a temperate climate in the Holocene.

Research on the interface between the lichens and substrates suggests that the weathering of minerals can be accelerated by the growth of some species of lichens. Under the Project RupScience (PTDC/HIS-ARQ/101299/2008) - "Review of operational chains, Archaeometry and Chronology of rock art paintings. A technological approach to material in contexts of Portugal and Spain", the identification and description of species of lichens in rock shelters with different lithologies associated to rock art in Portugal was carried out. The micro-bio-mineralogy damage reveals that lichens are the main agents of weathering associated with the paintings. The field work in rock-shelters with pre-historic paintings in Portugal, allowed the establishment of some correlations between the frequency, diversity, species distribution, climatic conditions variations and forms of deterioration, in particular related with slope and sun exposure of the rock art panels. The implemented methodology in the identification and description of the lichen species, involved the use of non invasive or destructive techniques (macrophotography and microscope identification). The interface between the lichens and substrate suggests that the weathering of minerals can be accelerated by the growth of some lichen species, in particular fungal hyphae.

This paper aims to provide insight into human occupation and landscape change during the Pleistocene in a central area of the Lower Tejo basin (Portugal). Detailed geomorphological mapping, coupled with lithostratigraphy, sedimentology and luminescence dating, supports the identification of a complete terrace staircase sequence. It consists of six gravely terraces located below the culminant (Pliocene) basin unit. A chronological framework for the sedimentary sequences and associated human industries is proposed and correlated with marine oxygen isotope stages (MIS): T1 terrace, not dated; T2, not dated; T3, >300ka; T4, ∼300–160ka (MIS8, MIS7 and MIS6); T5, ∼136–75ka (MIS5); T6, ∼62–30ka (MIS3); colluvium and aeolian sands, ∼30–14ka (MIS2); valley fill deposits, ∼14ka to present (MIS1). The oldest artefacts were found at the base of the T4 terrace, with the local stratigraphic level dated to ≥175±6ka (Middle Pleistocene). The lithic assemblages collected from distinct stratigraphic levels (T4, T5 top, T6 terraces and colluvium) are characterized by the predominance of opportunistic technological choices, a feature that can be attributed partly to the preferential exploitation of the available raw material, dominated by local-sourced quartzites and quartz pebbles. The adaptation to local raw material (texture and volume), together with subsistence patterns and behaviours, could explain the rarity of Acheulian types (handaxes and cleavers) and picks in the T4 terraces of the Tejo tributaries; this is in contrast to the same terrace of the Tejo valley, in which these types are found. Interpretation of the environmental conditions (controlled by climate and glacio-eustatic sea-level changes) affecting the hunter-gatherer human groups is also presented.

Archaeological evidence for the earliest human presence in western Iberia is summarised and discussed. Western Iberia is geologically characterised by magmatic and metamorphic rocks (Hesperian Massif) but also by siliciclastic and carbonate Mesozoic and Cenozoic formations. The geological context affects the distribution of Pleistocene archaeological sites, as the most of the archaeological evidence known today is located in river terrace formations or in karst deposits. Very few sites have been fully investigated; the older ones are tentatively dated as middle/late Middle Pleistocene. Recent results have been obtained using an archaeological and geomorphological approach carried out in the Portuguese region of Alto Ribatejo. Dating of the lithic assemblages found in fluvial terraces or in cave deposits indicates that the first human presence in Portugal is not older than the OIS 8–9. However, it remains difficult to explain the long chronological gap between the archaeological evidences in western Iberia and the older sites in central and eastern Iberia, such as those in the Sierra de Atapuerca and Guadix Baxa areas.

This article is a part of the results of the master thesis, which aim was to improve significantly the studies of the conditions of pictorial elements in a rock art mural, that is, to know the materials that were used and their interactions with the open air. This academic exercise introduces new aspects in the research process concerning the materials present in these rock art works and leads up to the works about technology of pigments in the studied area, extending the descriptive possibilities of the conservation conditions of rock art. The study of the materials opens a route towards the conservation work, and constitutes an essential way for the projected studies on dating. In this work, pigments were analyzed, some accretions, the rock substrate and the possible raw material of the rock art paintings. This analysis was done using Spectrometry Infrared. This investigation process is set in the context that the research group GIPRI has developed, as an extension of the methodological model of record and documentation of rock art in Colombia, especially in the cundiboyacense highplateau. The rock chosen was "La Piedra de La Cuadrícula ", located in a set of 167 rocks in Tequendama's area, Soacha's Municipality, in Cundinamarca's department. This sector is one of the most important archaeological sites of the country. In this site cultural stratigraphic sequences between 12 500 B.P. and 2500 B.P. have been found. On the other hand, there have been developed very important studies of the Pleistocenic and Holocenic environment.

Interpretation of lithic remains in fluvial terrace contexts: an example from Central Portugal. Archaeological remains, mainly lithic artefacts, are recovered in quaternary fluvial deposits all around the world. Fluvial systems are dynamic and diversified; the same goes for their deposits, thus differentially affecting the implements found. The deposits, coexisting at the same time, are correlated to different lithologies, from the coarsest of the channel fillings (pebbles, gravels and sands) to the finest of the floodplain sediments (silts). During a fluvial sedimentary cycle, water energy can change, with repercussion on deposit formation, position of lithic remains and their physical alteration. In order to define a taphonomy of archaeological remains, the geoarchaeological understanding of these implements has to be based on an accurate characterization of the deposits along with a detailed record of artefact orientation and observation of physical alteration. We aim to discuss these issues by referring to the Middle and Late Pleistocene archaeological site of Ribeira da Ponte da Pedra, where we identified lithic implements in several different fluvial depositional morphologies. Preliminary geoarchaeological interpretation allows us to define five archaeological contexts formed by different alluvial processes.

Se introducen nuevos aspectos en el proceso de investigación en torno a los materiales presentes en las obras rupestres y se inician los trabajos sobre tecnología de pigmentos en la zona de estudio, exactamente en las pinturas del abrigo rocoso "La Piedra de La Cuadrícula", Soacha Cundinamarca, ampliando así las posibilidades descriptivas de las condiciones de conservación del arte rupestre. Los estudios de los materiales abren una ruta hacia los trabajos de conservación, y constituyen un camino esencial para los estudios proyectados de dataciones. En este trabajo se analizaron los pigmentos, ciertas concreciones, el sustrato rocoso y la posible materia prima de las pinturas rupestres. Palabras clave: pigmentos, análisis químicos y mineralógicos, conservación, alteraciones.

RESUMO O Alto Ribatejo é uma região do centro de Portugal, que se estende ao longo do vale do Médio Tejo português. A sua bacia sedimentar é delimitada pelo maciço calcário Estremenho, essencialmente Mesozóico, a norte e a oeste, pelo complexo xisto-metamórfico, Pré-câmbrico e Paleo-zóico, a este, enquanto a sul é contíguo com a Bacia Ter-ciária do Tejo-Sado. Nos últimos 10 anos, no âmbito de vários projectos nacio-nais e Europeus, foi desenvolvida uma pesquisa que tinha como objectivo a caracterização cronológica, tipológica, e tecnológica dos conjunto macrolíticos do Alto Ribatejo, e também a clarificação dos sítios arqueológicos em relação com os depósitos quaternários do Médio Tejo e dos seus afluentes. Os instrumentos líticos são produzidos geralmente com seixos fluviais de quartzito e representam os achados mais abundantes da região. Raramente se encontram restos fau-nísticos devido a acidez dos solos, com a excepção das grutas calcárias e das antas. Os depósitos quaternários do Alto Ribatejo são represen-tados sobretudo pelos sedimentos aluviais recentes, pelos amplos terraços fluviais pleistocénicos, pelas coberturas detríticas (às vezes relativamente espessas) e pelos enchi-mentos das grutas cársicas. A problemática da interpretação cronológica das colecçõ-es líticas de superfície, baseada em parâmetros tecnológi-cos e tipológicos, torna evidente a necessidade de uma abordagem geoarqueológica para uma interpretação crono-estratigráfica. A caótica disposição determinada pela erosão dos antigos terraços fluviais e a subsequente deslocação na superfície dos depósitos mais recentes, juntamente com uma aparen-te homogeneidade morfológica, levou/induziu a atribuição de algumas colecções líticas ao "Languedocense". No entanto, foram escavados alguns sítios arqueológicos com industria macrolítica em contextos pleistocénicos e holocénicos-como o da Amoreira e o da Fonte da Moita-que são aqui apresentados. O recente desenvolvimento de um SIG forneceu um ins-trumento mais rigoroso para relacionar os sítios arqueoló-gicos com os respectivos depósitos geológicos. ABSTRACT Alto Ribatejo is a region of Central Portugal that extends itself along the middle Tagus river valley, in Portugal. Its sedimentary basin is marked out by the "Estremenho" Limestone Massif, essentially Mesozoic, to the North and West, and by the Schist-metamorphic Complex, Pre-Cam-brian and Palaeozoic, to the East, while to the South it's contiguous with the Tejo-Sado Basin. Throughout the last 10 years, within the compass of several national and European projects, a research was developed which aimed the chronological, typological and technological characterization of the Alto Ribatejo's macroli-thic assemblages, as well as the clarification of the archaeological sites in relation with the quaternary deposits of Middle Tagus and its tributaries. The lithic implements are generally made from fluvial quartzite pebbles and they represented the majority of archaeological finds in this region. Faunal remains are rarely present because of the acidity degree of the soils, with the exception of limestone cave and burial sites. The Alto Ribatejo quaternary deposits are mostly represented by the recent fluvial sediments, by wide Pleistoce-nic fluvial terraces, by detritical coverings (sometimes relatively thick) and by karstic caves fillings. The problematic chronological interpretation of the surface lithic collections, based on technological and typologi-cal parameters, made evident the need of a geo-archaeological approach for a chrono-stratigraphic interpretation. It's chaotic disposition caused by the erosion of the ancient fluvial terraces and subsequent replacement in the surface of more recent deposits, associated with an apparent general morphological homogeneity resulted on/indu-ced the chronological attribution of some lithic collections to the so called «Languedocian». In the meanwhile, archaeological sites, presenting macro-lithic implements, in holocenic and pleistocenic contexts, were excavated-such as Amoreira and Fonte da Moita sites, that here we present. Recent development of a GIS allowed us a more rigorous framing between archaeological sites and their respective geological deposits.

Alto Ribatejo is a region of Central Portugal that extends itself along the middle Tagus river valley, in Portugal. Its sedimentary basin is marked out by the "Estremenho" Limestone Massif, essentially Mesozoic, to the North and West, and by the Schist-metamorphic Complex, Pre-Cambrian and Palaeozoic, to the East, while to the South it's contiguous with the Tejo-Sado Basin. Throughout the last 10 years, within the compass of several national and European projects, a research was developed which aimed the chronological, typological and technological characterization of the Alto Ribatejo's macrolithic assemblages, as well as the clarification of the archaeological sites in relation with the quaternary deposits of Middle Tagus and its tributaries. The lithic implements are generally made from fluvial quartzite pebbles and they represented the majority of archaeological finds in this region. Faunal remains are rarely present because of the acidity degree of the soils, with the exception of limestone cave and burial sites. The Alto Ribatejo quaternary deposits are mostly represented by the recent fluvial sediments, by wide Pleistocenic fluvial terraces, by detritical coverings (sometimes relatively thick) and by karstic caves fillings. The problematic chronological interpretation of the surface lithic collections, based on technological and typological parameters, made evident the need of a geo-archaeological approach for a chrono-stratigraphic interpretation. It’s chaotic disposition caused by the erosion of the ancient fluvial terraces and subsequent replacement in the surface of more recent deposits, associated with an apparent general morphological homogeneity resulted on/induced the chronological attribution of some lithic collections to the so called «Languedocian». In the meanwhile, archaeological sites, presenting macrolithic implements, in holocenic and pleistocenic contexts, were excavated – such as Amoreira and Fonte da Moita sites, that here we present. Recent development of a GIS allowed us a more rigorous framing between archaeological sites and their respective geological deposits.