Paleolithic cave art at Simanya Gran (Northeast of Spain): New graphic and symbolic expressions in novel territories (original) (raw)

Abstract

Recent years have witnessed significant advancement in the understanding of prehistoric behavior, leading to the discovery of new assemblages that challenge established knowledge within the discipline. This study presents a newly discovered Paleolithic art site in the northeast region of the Iberian Peninsula, specifically within the Simanya Gran cave complex. Excavations conducted since 2019 have revealed Neanderthal human remains and a complex litho-stratigraphic sequence dating back to the Middle Paleolithic, indicating human occupation spanning multiple periods. The documented graphic device (engravings and painting) exhibits thematic and formal characteristics comparable to Paleolithic art found in Spain and France. Through stylistic and contextual analysis, the paper proposes a tentative chronology for the graphic evidence, situating it within the mid-late Magdalenian period. Furthermore, the study explores the concept of graphic territories, suggesting that the distribution of similar graphic motifs across distant regions reflects intense socio-cultural interactions among prehistoric human groups. The significance of this discovery extends beyond its immediate geographic location, contributing to a broader understanding of Paleolithic art in the Mediterranean region and highlighting the importance of continued research in this field.

Key takeaways

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  1. Simanya Gran cave art represents new Paleolithic graphic expressions in the Iberian Peninsula, enhancing our understanding of prehistoric behavior.
  2. Excavations since 2019 revealed Neanderthal remains and a complex litho-stratigraphic sequence dating beyond 50,000 years ago.
  3. The documented engravings and paintings align stylistically with mid-late Magdalenian art from Spain and France.
  4. The concept of graphic territories indicates socio-cultural interactions among prehistoric human groups across distant regions.
  5. This study expands the corpus of Mediterranean Paleolithic art, emphasizing the need for ongoing archaeological research.

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What new insights does Simanya Gran provide about Paleolithic geographic distribution?add

The study reveals that the Iberian Peninsula is shifting towards more stable geographic distributions for Paleolithic art manifestations, with notable graphic assemblages now documented in northeastern regions, diversifying from traditional territories.

How does the graphic evidence from Simanya Gran compare to existing Paleolithic sites?add

The graphic evidence includes organized dot patterns (UG1) and claviform motifs (UG2), with stylistic similarities found in renowned sites like Niaux and Cullalvera, suggesting common artistic traditions across regions.

What was the methodology used for detecting prehistoric engravings in Simanya Gran?add

A systematic visual survey was conducted by researchers in October 2022, employing field documentation protocols using advanced photographic equipment to identify and document new graphic evidence.

What chronological placement can be attributed to the graphic assemblages at Simanya Gran?add

Despite lack of numerical dating, the assemblages are believed to correspond to the mid-late Magdalenian period, approximately between 14,500 to 12,000 BP, based on thematic comparisons.

Which archaeological evidence indicates human occupation at Simanya Gran during the Paleolithic?add

Excavations confirmed the presence of Middle Paleolithic occupations, including Mousterian artifacts and Neanderthal remains, highlighting the cave's significance as a repeated habitat over time.