The “Archeology of the Light”: A multiproxy, interdisciplinary and experimental approach to Paleolithic subterranean activities.

A groundbreaking interdisciplinary approach, the A-LIGHT project, has significantly advanced our understanding of Paleolithic cave activities by focusing on rarely studied residues from lighting systems such as lamps, fireplaces, and torches. The study reveals critical insights into the selection of fuels, chronology, intensity of visits, and paleo-paths within caves. Experimental reproductions of Paleolithic firelight have provided essential data on visibility and accessibility, enhancing the realism of virtual simulations of Rock Art. This methodology is pivotal for a holistic understanding of subterranean environments, offering new perspectives on prehistoric lighting systems' functioning, duration, light intensity, and the minimum number and date of prehistoric incursions.

Medina-Alcaide, M. Á. (2024). The “Archeology of the Light”: A multiproxy, interdisciplinary and experimental approach to Paleolithic subterranean activities. Open Research Europe. https://doi.org/10.12688/openreseurope.17712.1