Late chronology in Hualfín Valley (Catamarca, Argentina): A revision from14C dating

Abstract

This article addresses chronological problems about archaeological sites traditionally associated with the Belén culture from Hualfín Valley (Catamarca, Argentina), analyzing background research, radiocarbon dates obtained by A Rex González before 1970, and14C dates made since 1996. First, we critically review the chronological sequence built by González for Belén sites, which include the Late period (AD 1100-1480) and Inca period (AD 1480-1536), subdivided into three phases. Methodological problems that could affect results of the first14C dates are discussed. Based on this review, we present new14C dating considering extraction contexts, types of samples, calibration curve data used, the laboratory where each date was obtained, and their methods of measuring, characteristics of sites of origin, and associated archaeological material. Finally, using calibrated ranges and Bayesian models, we suggest groups of events that would correspond to different times in the history of late occupations in the valley.