Experiments around the fire: discovering human and natural processes in middle paleolithic hearths

Abstract

The use of fire technology in prehistoric societies is very well known. However, research is still being carried out into its production and control during the middle Paleolithic period. The study of hearths has illustrated the social aspects of human groups through studies of their typology and morphology, the study of the combustible materials and the spatial distribution of remains. In the latter case it is important to differentiate that which has occurred naturally or as a result of human activity. Another factor which must also be considered is the influence of the location of the materials used to make the fire, as well as the temperatures. In this paper we present a comparative study of experimental fire places with archaeological examples from the El Cañaveral middle Paleolithic site. This study analyzes the relationship between temperature, location inside the fireplace, and the spatial distribution of heated elements in order to consider the "fire spatial displacements". By controlling variations in the distribution of elements, due to fire fragmentations, and with the assistance of refits, we will discuss the existence of other post sedimentary agents, as well as knapping methods. Using these approaches we will attempt to determine some patterns of Neanderthal activities around hearths, and show some dynamic aspects of lithic tools life.