Review of the techno-economic trends from Cova de les Cendres and Coves de Santa Maira, Spain. The central Iberian Mediterranean area during the Tardiglacial and Early Postglacial

Abstract

This paper investigates the continuity and transformation of lithic production and subsistence strategies during the Late Pleistocene–Holocene transition in the central Iberian Mediterranean region. The analysis of Magdalenian and Epipalaeolithic assemblages from key sites such as Cova de les Cedres and Cova de Santa Maira reveals a sustained technological and subsistence pattern characterised by specialised hunting and lithic production systems. The lithic assemblages from these periods demonstrate minimal changes, with a focus on bladelet production with the final objective to obtain armatures. The exploitation of red deer and Iberian ibex, along with an abundant consumption of leporids, constitutes the core subsistence strategy, with slight geographical variation in taxonomic preference. The diversification of prey towards the Epipalaeolithic, coupled with a stable occupation pattern and reduced mobility, highlights a broader ecological adaptation. Overall, the results underscore a high degree of homogeneity in lithic and subsistence practices, suggesting a unified cultural tradition across the region.