EL CONSUMO DE MOLUSCOS MARINOS EN FORTALEZAS MEDIEVALES DE GALICIA (NOROESTE IBÉRICO): EL REGISTRO ZOOARQUEOLÓGICO.

The results of the archaeological analysis of three fortresses in Galicia are presented: A Rocha Forte (Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña), Castillo de Moeche (Moeche, A Coruña) and Castillo de Pambre (Palas de Rei, Lugo). The analyzed materials come from deposits corresponding to late medieval period, although in the case of Pambre in transition to the Modern Age or from its initial moments. The data reflect a priority consumption of the oyster (Ostrea edulis), although in those sites relatively closest to the sea (Moeche and A Rocha Forte) the arrival of other molluscs, mainly bivalve as Ruditapes decussatus, Mytilus galloprovincialis and Cerastoderma sp., is documented, though with much lower values. In addition to the fundamental nutritional interest of these marine resources, their importance is evaluated for a better understanding of the commercial networks existing at that time and the demand that certain social classes make for a product as specific as seafood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]