Innovations in Acheulean biface production at la Noira (France) during Middle Pleistocene in Western Europe

The archaeological sequence of la Noira (Centre region, France) yielded two phases occupation: ca 700 ka (stratum a) and 450 c). No site between these dates has yet been discovered in the area, this chronological period thus interpreted as a gap settlement from MIS 16 to 12, crucial occupation Western Europe. record before long glacial event 12 traditionally associated with onset Acheulean From represents earliest evidence innovations, clear shift human evolution. Here, we compare levels (strata c), tracking technological innovations during time combining analysis geometric morphometrics use 3D models comparison large cutting tools (LCTs). Stratum an Early Acheulean, one few evidences Europe presents mainly short shaping sequences on local millstone slabs, special attention tips, but management tool volume. c, dated 11, differs that both flints distant sources show longer sequences, soft hammers for several series removals tools, combined final regularizing retouch entire edges. morphometric approach shows morphological transition oval teardrop shapes thinnest tools. Our data suggest filiation strata c populations suggested core technologies land-use patterns, raise question behavioural evolution over Middle Pleistocene