Exploring the end of the upper magdalenian in northern Valencian region (Mediterranean Iberia)

Abstract

This paper revisits the main sites of the Northern Valencian region dating to the end of the Pleistocene. The analysis of the material culture recovered at these sites provides the necessary data to offer an updated overview of the main characteristics and changes of the industries of this period in Mediterranean Iberia. The initial division of the period into four major stages (Upper Magdalenian, Early Epimagdalenian, Late Epimagdalenian and Sauveterrian) can now be redefined according to the changes observed, suggesting the existence of a new short time facies typified by the presence of Truncated backed points. The new facies, never identified before, marks the change from the Upper Magdalenian to the Epimagdalenian.