Exploring the Lithic Variability of the Mousterian (MIS 9–3) Open-Air Sites of the Pontine Plain (Central Italy)

Abstract This paper presents a preliminary study of the Middle Palaeolithic lithic industries recovered at six selected open-air sites in Latium region (central Italy), part regional cultural complex known as “Pontinian”. The pedo-stratigraphic analysis combined with 40Ar/ 39Ar age constraints on permits us to provide for first time geomorphological and chronological (300–40 ka) framework several central Italy. temporal range is remarkably coincident Neanderthal presence this region. Moreover, collections analysed include oldest occurrence Mousterian industry present work, therefore, provides background context future re-evaluation peculiar Pontinian techno-complex through more in-depth technological approach its comparison other occurrences