Technological variability and raw material procurement in the Cantabrian Lower Magdalenian: Level G1 at El Cierro Cave (Ribadesella, Asturias, Spain)

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the lithic assemblage from Level G1 of El Cierro Cave (northern Spain), attributed to the Cantabrian Lower Magdalenian. The study comprises 2,829 items, including 2,800 knapped artefacts, six macrolithic tools and 23 unmodified pebbles. Lithic procurement is dominated by flint, followed by quartzite and minor amounts of quartz. Eleven flint types have been identified, with local raw materials prevailing, while regional and tracer groups occur in lower proportions, indicating selective long-distance connections within the Basque-Cantabrian Basin. Technological analysis reveals complete operational chains for flake production using locally available resources, alongside greater variability in laminar reduction strategies. Blade production is limited and clearly subordinate to flake-oriented technologies. The retouched tool assemblage, dominated by endscrapers, conforms to typical Upper Palaeolithic techno-typological patterns, whereas backed bladelets are poorly represented. Use-wear analysis indicates a range of activities involving macrolithic tools, potentially linked to both lithic production and the processing of organic materials. Overall, the Level G1 assemblage at El Cierro is characterised by a strong reliance on local raw materials, restricted circulation of distant flints and low investment in laminar production, reflecting procurement strategies operating primarily at a local scale and a technological organisation adapted to domestic activities and reduced mobility.

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