Spatial organization of technological activities in a large hunter-gatherer residential campsite during the Late Holocene: the case of Huencú Nazar in the Central Pampean Dunefields of Argentina (South America)

Abstract

Huencú Nazar was interpreted as a large residential campsite in the Central Pampean Dunefields of Argentina, occupied during several times throughout the Late Holocene (~ 3450 and 2930 years cal BP). Numerous hearths composed of animal bones, caches, and concentrations of lithics, faunal remains, pigments, and charcoals were found. In this context, the production and use of lithic artifacts, and the organization of the space are explored. This was carried out through techno-morphological, use-wear, and spatial analyses of the lithic materials recovered in the different sectors of this site. We identified a non-random organization of the space with sectors where specific well-planned activities were carried out. In a sector close to the body of water, and in relation to three hearths, domestic tasks related to food processing, the manufacture of stone tools, and hide working were identified. This novel information permits to acquire a much better understanding of how the act of working hides was an activity possibly associated with women in one sector of this residential camp. Outside this sector, the manufacture of stone tools by pecking and polishing and woodworking with large orthoquartzite tools were recognized. The presence of site furniture materials (e.g., caches and grinding tools) suggests the presence of long-term occupations and the intention to reoccupy the site in the future.