Publications
In situ characterization of prehistoric rock paintings: the Côa Valley (Portugal)
A study of prehistoric rock paintings in the Côa Valley, Portugal, reveals that hematite is the predominant pigment used in these ancient artworks. The research utilized in situ color spectrophotometry and portable Raman spectroscopy to analyze red motifs across four sites within the archaeological complex. Findings indicate that while hematite dominates the pigments, goethite, quartz, and feldspars are also present, suggesting potential use of ochre or natural elements from the backdrop stones. This non-invasive methodology provides valuable insights into the composition and preservation of prehistoric rock art, contributing to a deeper understanding of human creativity and material culture during ancient times.
El arte Paleolítico de Siega Verde (Serranillo, Salamanca, España): Una sintética visión en el trigésimo aniversario de su descubrimiento
In 2018, the thirtieth anniversary of the discovery of Paleolithic rock art at Siega Verde (Serranillo, Salamanca, Spain) marked a pivotal moment in understanding Upper Paleolithic art and human settlement during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). The site, recognized for its open-air equid figures, challenged prevailing views on Iberian Meseta's prehistoric populations. Its inclusion in UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2010 underscores its global significance. This synthetic study synthesizes key findings from three decades of research, highlighting the site's unique contributions to Paleolithic art studies and its role as a reference for interpreting prehistoric societies.
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