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It is likely that ritual activity existed (and even played an important role) in the life of Upper Palaeolithic groups. However, rites are among the aspects of human behaviour most elusive to archaeological research. In this paper, we will analyse the evidence from several Magdalenian cave sites where the existence of 'sanctuaries' or other kinds of ritual activity has been claimed. The available methods for the evaluation of this kind of area will be discussed, and a preliminary assessment of some recently documented sites will be proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Verberie is a late Palaeolithic site with high resolution in the preservation of archaeological materials and their spatial configuration. While excellent preservation offers great promise for the interpretation of past human behavior, it cannot be assumed that this is a totally pristine site. Post-depositional pedogenetic processes have eradicated stratigraphic bedding of the sediments, leaving a methodological challenge for the archaeologists to separate materials from multiple occupation lenses, which have retained most of their spatial integrity. Impressionistic back-plotting, statistical analysis of artefact elevations, and refitting of flint, fire-cracked rock and reindeer bones have contributed to deciphering the depositional puzzle. These have revealed artefact associations and spatial configurations which can be given well-founded behavioral interpretations derived from experimental and ethnoarchaeological research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents results of recent analysis of settlement patterns in the Vézère valley (Dordogne, France). Concentrating on the Final Magdalenian, it shows that patterning observed is a function not only of the topographic setting of sites but also of their socioeconomic context. Adoption of the Rank Size Rule as an analytical tool highlights the potential relationship between sites which, on initial examination, appear to be unrelated. It allows us, on the basis of size, to divide sites into three main categories: large, medium and small, each of which was important to the Magdalenian hunter. When associated assemblage data (faunal, lithic, etc.) are considered some indication of the role of these sites is obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]