Living in the Mountains. Settlement patterns in Northwestern Iberia during the Palaeolithic period

Abstract

Despite the presence of a theoretical model describing the settlement patterns of Palaeolithic sites in Northwestern Iberia, it has not yet been empirically tested using statistical analysis. This study explores the settlement patterns of the Palaeolithic period in Northwestern Iberia within two regions that share similar chronology and research traditions: the Northern and Central Mountain ranges of Northwestern Iberia. Employing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial statistics, the methodology has provided robust empirical support for several aspects of the theoretical model. The study rigorously tested the theoretical model proposed in the existing literature using statistical analysis and a comprehensive dataset of 50 variables. The findings highlight significant regional distinctions in the settlement patterns of Palaeolithic sites within both areas of Northwestern Iberia. This research not only confirms certain hypotheses related to Palaeolithic site locations but also underscores the need for further examination and refinement of others, particularly considering the notable regional variations.