The Late Mesolithic of the south-western coast of Portugal: The lithic industry of Vale Marim I in focus

Abstract

In this paper, we present a synthesis of the technological and functional patterns (micro-wear analysis) of the chert knapped industry from the Late Mesolithic site of Vale Marim I. The site is located directly on the cliff of the Atlantic shore, close to the harbour of Sines. The results of the lithic assemblage study are discussed in the wider context of the Late Mesolithic of the south-western coast of Portugal in order to shed light on the subsistence marine adaptations and on the complex hunter-gatherer social organization during the period immediately preceding the appearance of the food-producing economy and domestic mode of production.