Haltes de chasse du Châtelperronien de la Péninsule Ibérique : Labeko Koba et Ekain (Pays Basque Péninsulaire)

Abstract: In this paper, we present two sites with evidences of ephemeral occupations dating to the Chatelperronian: Labeko Koba IX and Ekain X. In both levels carnivore presence is abundant. For this reason the interactions between humans, carnivores and herbivores are investigated from a taphonomic point of view in order to clarify the origin of faunal accumulation. Lithic industry is also analyzed from different perspectives: raw material acquisition, fabrication system, typology and use. These data have been used to characterize lithic provisioning strategies and to precise the range of activities performed in the site. The combination of thaponomic and industrial data suggest that both sites served as hunting camps. Starting from this interpretation we can assess the territory management strategies practiced during the Chatelperronian and the implication of this in the understanding of the Middle to Upper Paleolithic Transition and the replacement of Neanderthal populations in eastern Cantabrian region and Sud-Ouest of France. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]