EXCAVACIONES EN ALERO GIANELLA, CURSO MEDIO DEL VALLE DE CHACABUCO (ANDES CENTRO PATAGóNICOS)

The present study addresses the excavation and faunal and lithic analysis of one small rock shelter with rock paintings on an Andean valley in South-Central Patagonia. Although the zooarchaeological context is largely concordant with summer hunting forays, the preparation and use of diverse lithic artefacts suggests other activities were performed at the site, besides its use as a hunting stand. A 2720±25 BP radiocarbon date at the base indicates also that this area was occupied earlier and perhaps more regularly than previously thought. Although the relationship with the eastern plains is confirmed, we observe also the use of local raw materials.