Exploring the formation processes on open-air palaeolithic sites: A late Middle Pleistocene Acheulean assemblage at Arbo site (Miño River basin, Spain)

The analysis of formation processes (e.g., degree surface alterations, size ranges, orientation patterns, fabric features, density, spatial etc.) in archaeological sites provide relevant information about the type and intensity sedimentary disturbances. This is particularly important Palaeolithic sites, especially when stratigraphic context suggests certain study follows a multivariate approach to Acheulean site (pre-dating Marine Isotopic Stage -MIS- 5) at Arbo (Lower Miño basin, Spain). two layers analyzed (levels OC1 OC2) with remains (exclusively lithic artefacts) show matrix-supported gravel cobble facies, which are compatible extensive results obtained demonstrate that altered assemblages different ways, some sorting abrasion, addition significant alteration initial patterns. However, disturbances observed not sufficient invalidate documented techno-typological information, representative patterns human behaviour site. reinforces importance this as necessary step interpretation any site, ages.