Inca domination and lithic technology changes at the north of the Hualfín Valley (Catamarca province, Argentina)

Abstract

The Inca Empire, known for its extensive reach and sophisticated administrative strategies, incorporated diverse Andean populations, such as those in the Northwest Argentina (NWA). This study explores the incorporation of the Hualfín Valley and its impact on local technology, by comparing lithic assemblages from three archaeological sites. Two of them, Villavil 1 (ca. 8th − 16th century CE) and Villavil 2 (ca. 10th − 16th century CE), were pre-Inca settlements, with the latter likely continuing into the Inca period, while Hualfín Inka served as an administrative centre during early Inca rule (ca. 15th − 16th century CE).

Through typological and raw material analysis, this study identifies significant variations in lithic technology across the sites. Hualfín Inka’s assemblage is characterised by a notable presence of non-local, high-quality materials such as flint and chalcedony, suggesting that visiting groups may have introduced these materials to the site. The highly expeditive strategy of this assemblage is consistent with the site’s ceremonial or festive function.

Conversely, Villavil 2 predominantly features obsidian, which is absent at Hualfín Inka, indicating a significant meaning ascribed to this raw material. In Villavil 1, the primary use of local raw materials and a greater investment of knapping labour are consistent with the site’s agricultural character.

This paper argues that lithic technology may have reflected the expression of local populations’ identity. This is read in the light of a likely political strategy carried out by the Inca Empire aimed to achieve alliances with local elites and legitimize its domination over the Hualfín Valley.