Bosques fósiles y tecnología humana: la explotación de materias primas líticas en el Bosque de Darwin, Paramillos (Argentina)

Abstract

The geology of the Darwin Forest in central-western Argentina has been extensively studied since it was originally described by the author of On the Origin of Species. However, its role as a source and quarry of lithic raw materials throughout human history in the region has received less attention. In this paper, we evaluate the potential of the fossil trunks as knappableresources. Geological and archaeological surveys characterize the different features of human use in the Paramillos and Los Colorados geological formations. Petrographics and GIS analysis are also developed. Results show a strategic location of the sources related to Uspallata valley and Precordilleran sites (Agua de la Cueva). The favorable conditions related to accessibility, visibility as well as quality and abundance of these rawmaterials explain the extensive exploitation demonstrated in quarried trunks, and the corresponding incidence of primary debitage in surface areas.