António Manuel Monge Soares
Instituto Superior Técnico, Campus Tecnológico e Nuclear, Department Member
- Geochemistry, Archaeometry, Chemistry, Archaeology, Oceanography, Chemical Oceanography, and 119 moreRadiocarbon Dating (Earth Sciences), Radiocarbon Dating (Archaeology), Bayesian Radiocarbon Dating, Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Late Bronze Age archaeology, Edad Del Bronce, Coastal Aquifer, Arqueología, Arqueometalurgia, 14C dating (Archaeology), Archaeometallurgy, Iron Age, Stable Isotope Analysis, Stable Isotope Geochemistry, Upwelling, Coastal upwelling, Iberian (Portugal/Spain) Upwelling Areas, Neolítico, Arqueometría, Edad Del Hierro, Late Bronze Age, Early Bronze Age (Archaeology), Idade Do Bronze, Ancient Metallurgy, Geology, Geologia, Stone beads, X-ray Diffraction, EDXRF, SEM EDS, Applications of EPMA and SEM-EDS, Coastal Dynamics and Management; Fluvio-Marine Interactions Over the Last 5000yr, Copper ingots, Bronze Age metal hoards, Death and Burial (Archaeology), Funerary Archaeology, History, History of Archaeology, Radiocarbon Reservoir Effects, AMS radiocarbon dating, reservoir effect, Radiocarbon Reservoir Effect, Radiocarbon Age Calibration, 14C Age Calibration, Radiocarbon, Chronology, Relative-Absolute dating, Radiocarbon Dates, Radiocarbon Chronology, Radiocarbono, Compound-specific Radiocarbon dating, Radiochemistry and Archaelogy, Radiochemistry, Classical Archaeology, PIXE, XRF, Archaeogemology, Archaeomineralogy, Archaeology of Mining, Metalwork (Archaeology), Bronze Age Metalwork, Late Bronze Age Weaponry, Late Bronze Age, Early Iron Age, Middle Bronze Age, Aegean Bronze Age (Bronze Age Archaeology), Greek Archaeology, AMS 14C dating, Ceramic Analysis (Archaeology), Bronze Age Metallurgy, Bronze Age swords, Early Bronze Metallurgy, Iron Age Metallurgy, Early Mining, Ancient Iron Metallurgy, Experimental Archaeology, Archaeological Chemistry, Organic Residue Analysis, Biomolecular archaeology, Metallography of Ancient Metals, Metallography, Early Metallurgy, Goldsmithery, Lead Metallurgy, Lead Isotope Analysis, Silver Metallurgy, Phoenician Silver Metallurgy, Phoenicians in Spain, Elemental and Isotopic Analysis, Science and Archaeology of Materials, Experimental Co-smelting, Co-smelting, Copper Smelting, Metallurgy, Archaeometallurgy, Mineralogy, Archaeometry, Chalcolithic Metallurgy, Crucible Metallurgy, Gold, X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Spectroscopy, portable XRF (PXRF) in Archaeology and Museum Science, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Early Copper Metallurgy, Iron Smelting, Paleometallurgy, Experimental Archaeometallurgy, Bronze Age Metal Technology, Agrarian Archaeology, Agricultural landscapes, Roman Archaeology, Archaeological Method & Theory, Archaeological Theory, Prehistoric Archaeology, Mediterranean prehistory, Neolithic Archaeology, Archaeological Science, Ancient economies (Archaeology), Ceramic Petrography, Geoarchaeology, Environmental Archaeology, Coastal and Island Archaeology, and Archaeology of Mediterranean Tradeedit
O estudo levado a cabo permitiu, pela primeira vez, identificar os eventos de frio 5 e 4 de Bond e o de 0,8 ka cal BP de deMenocal nos teores em radiocarbono das conchas e confirmá-los como fenómenos à escala global (circum-atlântico... more
O estudo levado a cabo permitiu, pela primeira vez, identificar os eventos de frio 5 e 4 de Bond e o de 0,8 ka cal BP de deMenocal nos teores em radiocarbono das conchas e confirmá-los como fenómenos à escala global (circum-atlântico norte). Esses eventos revelam-se por valores positivos muito elevados de ΔR e são precursores de reorganizações climáticas. Os dois primeiros, datados de 7810±90 BP e de 5640±100 BP, respectivamente, foram apenas detectados na série de valores de ΔR (e de 13) determinados para a costa portuguesa, uma vez que as séries para a costa andaluza e para a costa galega se iniciam em 4580±110 BP, a primeira, e em 2440±29 BP, a segunda. O evento de frio de 0,8 ka foi determinado quer para a costa portuguesa quer para a costa galega com datas estatisticamente idênticas – costa portuguesa: 870±90 BP; costa galega: 860±90 BP. Além dos picos de ΔR correspondentes a estes três eventos, dois outros picos foram obtidos: um, datado por volta de 4000 BP e um outro cerca de 1100 BP. O primeiro, detectado quer para a costa portuguesa quer para a orla oriental do Golfo de Cádiz, deverá ser a tradução de um “upwelling” costeiro muito intenso, uma vez que o 13C das conchas analisadas apresenta valores positivos ao contrário do que sucede com os outros picos. Além disso, entre 4000 e 3200 BP terá havido uma época de secura, com expansão de espécies termomediterrâneas no noroeste alentejano, enquanto que no sudeste e, possivelmente, também no sudoeste espanhol, o intervalo de 4500 e 4000 BP, corresponderá a uma época de aridez e, por conseguinte, a uma insolação intensa, que se traduziu no aparecimento e intensificação do fenómeno do “upwelling” costeiro, como os valores positivos de ΔR que acompanham o pico de ca. 4000 BP da série andaluza sugerem. Então os dois picos aparentemente síncronos não o serão, tendo lugar, entre eles, uma reorganização climática cujo mecanismo forçador terá sido o evento 3 de Bond. O outro pico, em 1140±45 BP, foi só detectado na costa portuguesa, possivelmente ligado à reorganização climática que originou o Pequeno Óptimo Climático e o seu valor não resultará de qualquer intensificação do “upwelling” nesse momento. A análise das séries de valores de ΔR em função do tempo, conjugada com outros indicadores paleoclimáticos e paleoceanográficos, permitem ainda as seguintes conclusões: i) Entre o evento 8 de Bond (ca. 11100 cal BP) e o final do Pré-Boreal (até ao evento 7, ca. 10300 cal BP) terá existido na costa portuguesa um regime de “upwelling” costeiro, cuja intensidade terá aumentado ao longo desse período. ii) Durante o Boreal, a que corresponde um clima frio, terá ocorrido entre o evento 6 (ca. 9,4 ka cal BP) e o 5 (ca. 8,2 ka cal BP) um “upwelling” costeiro pouco activo ou mesmo inexistente, como os valores negativos para ΔR indiciam. iii) Os intervalos de tempo entre os eventos 5 e 4 (ca. 5,9 ka cal BP) e entre este e o 3 (ca. 4,2 ka cal BP ou ca. 4000 BP) encontram-se muito mal amostrados, pelo que quaisquer inferências deverão ser posteriormente validadas com mais dados. No entanto, com a reorganização climática associada ao evento “8,2 ka”, assiste-se a uma modificação no padrão de povoamento mesolítico na faixa costeira portuguesa, provavelmente relacionada com uma melhoria do clima (um aquecimento climático), pelo que será expectável um “upwelling” costeiro activo, embora fraco, como os dois únicos valores de ΔR determinados para o primeiro intervalo também sugerem. Para o segundo intervalo, para a costa portuguesa, para um momento próximo do seu final (4530-4830 cal BP), foi obtido um valor de ΔR negativo, ao contrário do que se obteve para o Golfo de Cádiz, o que sugere condições climáticas diferentes entre a fachada atlântica ocidental da Península (diminuição da temperatura, menor insolação das massas continentais) e o sudoeste espanhol (aridez, maior insolação). De qualquer modo, após a reorganização climática que o evento 3 terá provocado, num momento muito próximo, não possível de distinguir com as datas de radiocarbono obtidas, ter-se-á verificado uma intensificação do “upwelling” na costa portuguesa, que se traduziu por um máximo na série de ΔRs, enquanto que, com essa reorganização climática, terminou o período de cerca de 500 anos de existência de um “upwelling” activo na costa andaluza do Golfo de Cádiz, para não mais esse fenómeno voltar a ocorrer de um modo activo naquela orla costeira. iv) O período entre 4000 e 3000 BP, a que corresponderá um clima mais quente e seco do que o anterior para a costa portuguesa, com expansão de taxa termomediterrâneos, deverá caracterizar-se por um “upwelling” costeiro intenso e, por conseguinte, por valores altos de ΔR. No entanto, a inexistência da determinação de qualquer valor de ΔR para este intervalo de tempo, quer para a costa portuguesa, quer para a costa andaluza do Golfo de Cádiz, quer para a costa ocidental galega, torna impossível corroborar as inferências anteriores. v) Pelo contrário, a partir de 3000 BP dispôe-se de uma boa amostragem para a costa portuguesa e razoável para os outros troços de costa investigados. Verifica-se que, na costa galega, ao contrário do que sucede para a costa portuguesa, os valores de ΔR são todos negativos até ca. 1000 cal AD, o que sugere um “upwelling” inexistente ou, quando muito, de fraca intensidade. O mesmo acontecerá para a costa andaluza, embora aqui essa situação ocorra muito provavelmente desde 4000 BP e se prolongue até à actualidade. Para a costa portuguesa, a partir de 3000 BP terá existido um “upwelling” activo, mas menos intenso que o actual, excepto durante o Pequeno Óptimo Climático, quando se terá aproximado dos valores modernos. Por seu lado, na costa galega, a partir do pico de ca. 1000 cal AD, isto é, a partir da reorganização climática desencadeada por esse evento, observa-se o aparecimento e intensificação do “upwelling” costeiro, embora dentro de uma certa variabilidade como os valores positivos e negativos determinados para ΔR sugerem. A grande variabilidade climática do Holocénico, com uma dimensão insuspeitada até à poucos anos atrás (por ex., os eventos de frio foram apenas identificados e estudados a partir dos meados dos anos noventa), tem, como este estudo demonstra, reflexos profundos na intensidade do “upwelling” costeiro nas margens atlânticas ocidental e meridional da Península Ibérica. Deverá sublinhar-se que esta dissertação constitui o estudo mais completo até hoje efectuado sobre o efeito de reservatório oceânico e que este é o “proxy” que proporciona o sinal mais directo sobre a actividade do “upwelling” costeiro.
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Within the context of the restoration of the “Torre de las Harinas”, an archaeological intervention with crossdisciplinary character was carried out. This brings forward new information about the medieval fortress in Zufre. Some... more
Within the context of the restoration of the “Torre de las Harinas”, an archaeological intervention with crossdisciplinary character was carried out. This brings forward new information about the medieval fortress in Zufre. Some guidelines and approaches for the conservation of the building have been offered, as well as information for the historic knowledge.
En el contexto de la restauración de la Torre de Las Harinas, se realizó una intervención arqueológica de carácter multidisciplinar que aporta nuevos datos sobre la fortificación medieval de Zufre. Se han ofrecido pautas y criterios para la conservación del inmueble, al mismo tiempo que se han generado información para el conocimiento histórico.
En el contexto de la restauración de la Torre de Las Harinas, se realizó una intervención arqueológica de carácter multidisciplinar que aporta nuevos datos sobre la fortificación medieval de Zufre. Se han ofrecido pautas y criterios para la conservación del inmueble, al mismo tiempo que se han generado información para el conocimiento histórico.
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The archaeological site of Castro dos Ratinhos (Moura, Portugal) is situated on top of an elevation on the left margin of the Guadiana River. Archaeological works carried out since 2004 to 2007 identified several habitat and defensive... more
The archaeological site of Castro dos Ratinhos (Moura, Portugal) is situated on top of an elevation on the left margin of the Guadiana River. Archaeological works carried out since 2004 to 2007 identified several habitat and defensive structures belonging to two different occupation periods – Late Bronze Age (XII – IX centuries BC) and Early Iron Age (IX – VIII centuries BC). The recovered materials include an important collection of bronze artefacts, some of them exhibiting obvious influences from the Mediterranean Region (i.e. a belt hook and a weight). The chemical composition and microstructure of artefacts were characterized by EDXRF, micro‐EDXRF and optical metallography. Non invasive EDXRF analyses established that the collection is entirely composed by binary bronzes. Micro analyses determined that most artefacts were composed by good quality bronzes, i.e. with an average tin content of 10,1 ± 2,5 %. Furthermore, the absence of low tin bronzes implied that scrap was probably not used as raw material. Functional artefacts present tin contents close to 10 %, probably to facilitate the thermomechanical procedures that should be applied to obtain more durable artefacts. Preliminary microstructural results identified several operational procedures: (1) casting; (2) casting, hammering and annealing, and (3) casting, hammering, annealing and final hammering.
O Castro dos Ratinhos situa‐se no concelho de Moura, implantado numa elevação destacada da paisagem, na margem esquerda do Guadiana. As diversas campanhas de escavação, realizadas entre 2004 e 2007, revelaram diversas estruturas defensivas e de habitat pertencentes a duas fases de ocupação – Bronze Final (século XII a finais do século IX a.C.) e Idade do Ferro Antigo (finais do século IX a finais do século VIII a.C.). O espólio material recuperado inclui um importante conjunto de artefactos metálicos em bronze, exibindo alguns dos exemplares claras conexões com o mundo orientalizante (por ex., um fecho de cinturão e um ponderal). Os artefactos metálicos foram caracterizados por EDXRF, micro‐EDXRF e microscopia óptica de forma a determinar a composição das ligas metálicas em que foram manufacturados e identificar os processos termomecânicos aplicados na sua produção. As análises não invasivas por EDXRF revelaram que a colecção é inteiramente composta por ligas binárias de cobre e estanho. Os resultados das microanálises indicaram ligas de bronze com teores de estanho (10,1 ± 2,5 %) característicos de ligas de boa qualidade, sendo que a ausência de bronzes pobres em estanho indicia a não utilização de sucata. Os utensílios, quando comparados com os objectos de adorno ou as argolas, apresentam teores de estanho mais próximos de 10 %, o que parece indicar algum tipo de selecção de ligas para facilitar, eventualmente, os processos termomecânicos de acabamento deste tipo de artefactos. Os resultados preliminares da caracterização microestrutural identificaram até ao presente momento três cadeias operatórias distintas: (1) vazamento; (2) vazamento, martelagem e recozimento; e (3) vazamento, martelagem, recozimento e martelagem.
O Castro dos Ratinhos situa‐se no concelho de Moura, implantado numa elevação destacada da paisagem, na margem esquerda do Guadiana. As diversas campanhas de escavação, realizadas entre 2004 e 2007, revelaram diversas estruturas defensivas e de habitat pertencentes a duas fases de ocupação – Bronze Final (século XII a finais do século IX a.C.) e Idade do Ferro Antigo (finais do século IX a finais do século VIII a.C.). O espólio material recuperado inclui um importante conjunto de artefactos metálicos em bronze, exibindo alguns dos exemplares claras conexões com o mundo orientalizante (por ex., um fecho de cinturão e um ponderal). Os artefactos metálicos foram caracterizados por EDXRF, micro‐EDXRF e microscopia óptica de forma a determinar a composição das ligas metálicas em que foram manufacturados e identificar os processos termomecânicos aplicados na sua produção. As análises não invasivas por EDXRF revelaram que a colecção é inteiramente composta por ligas binárias de cobre e estanho. Os resultados das microanálises indicaram ligas de bronze com teores de estanho (10,1 ± 2,5 %) característicos de ligas de boa qualidade, sendo que a ausência de bronzes pobres em estanho indicia a não utilização de sucata. Os utensílios, quando comparados com os objectos de adorno ou as argolas, apresentam teores de estanho mais próximos de 10 %, o que parece indicar algum tipo de selecção de ligas para facilitar, eventualmente, os processos termomecânicos de acabamento deste tipo de artefactos. Os resultados preliminares da caracterização microestrutural identificaram até ao presente momento três cadeias operatórias distintas: (1) vazamento; (2) vazamento, martelagem e recozimento; e (3) vazamento, martelagem, recozimento e martelagem.
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The megalithic monument MV1 is a slender orthostatic monument built up with schist slabs, with a circular chamber and a relative long passage. Contrarily to monuments with similar structural features, that are collective tombs, MV1 did... more
The megalithic monument MV1 is a slender orthostatic monument built up with schist slabs, with a circular chamber and a relative long passage. Contrarily to monuments with similar structural features, that are collective tombs, MV1 did not exhibit a funerary character and, perhaps, it must be considered as a sanctuary. It contained some pottery, four retouched flint blades, one axe and one adze and a fragment of an engraved green schist idol‑plaque.
All these goods point to an early moment in the Chalcolithic, probably in the transition from the 4th to the 3rd millennium BC. After some centuries from its first use, an individual was buried in the chamber of the monument. The grave goods, including an undecorated beaker pottery vase and the burial itself point to the so‑called Horizonte de Ferradeira. Radiocarbon dating by AMS of a small sample from the cranial bone gave the date Beta‑194027 3900±40 BP, which after calibration put the funerary context in the third quarter of the 3rd millennium BC, i.e. in the transition from the Chalcolithic to the Bronze Age of the Southern Portugal.
All these goods point to an early moment in the Chalcolithic, probably in the transition from the 4th to the 3rd millennium BC. After some centuries from its first use, an individual was buried in the chamber of the monument. The grave goods, including an undecorated beaker pottery vase and the burial itself point to the so‑called Horizonte de Ferradeira. Radiocarbon dating by AMS of a small sample from the cranial bone gave the date Beta‑194027 3900±40 BP, which after calibration put the funerary context in the third quarter of the 3rd millennium BC, i.e. in the transition from the Chalcolithic to the Bronze Age of the Southern Portugal.
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Research Interests: Bronze Age Europe (Archaeology), Radiocarbon Dating (Earth Sciences), Late Bronze Age archaeology, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Iron Age, and 7 moreEdad Del Bronce, Edad Del Hierro, Radiocarbon Dating (Archaeology), Arqueología del Bronce Final y Hierro I, Idade do Ferro, Absolute Chronology, and Idade Do Bronze
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(Comunicação ainda não publicada)
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(Publicado apenas sob a forma de resumo)
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This paper presents the first results of the archaeological work carried out in the Chalcolithic ditched enclosure of Folha do Ouro 1 (Serpa, Beja). The site was identified in an aerial image and integrated in the research developed by... more
This paper presents the first results of the archaeological work carried out in the Chalcolithic ditched enclosure of Folha do Ouro 1 (Serpa, Beja). The site was identified in an aerial image and integrated in the research developed by NIA-Era Arqueologia regarding this type of contexts and submitted to geophysics and surface prospection with collection of archaeological materials. Here, we address the assemblage of archaeological materials, the chronological scope of the site, its topographical location and architectonic characteristics observed
in the magnetogram. The site is integrated in the regional context, comparing with the known characteristics
of the Alentejo’s ditched enclosures.
in the magnetogram. The site is integrated in the regional context, comparing with the known characteristics
of the Alentejo’s ditched enclosures.
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O presente artigo pretende dar a conhecer os dados preliminares dos trabalhos de escavação arqueológica desenvolvidos em 2008 no núcleo 1 de Santa Margarida (Serpa), que corresponde a um sítio de planície localizado na margem esquerda do... more
O presente artigo pretende dar a conhecer os dados preliminares dos trabalhos de escavação arqueológica desenvolvidos em 2008 no núcleo 1 de Santa Margarida (Serpa), que corresponde a um sítio de planície localizado na margem esquerda do Guadiana.
Os trabalhos de campo permitiram identificar um conjunto de estruturas negativas enquadráveis no Bronze Final e 5 sepulturas tardo-romanas e/ou islâmicas. O conjunto artefactual recolhido é genericamente enquadrável no Bronze Final do Sudoeste peninsular, com destaque para a colecção de cerâmicas de ornatos brunidos.
This paper discusses the preliminary results from the archaeological excavations undertaken at Santa Margarida (Serpa), an archaeological site, apparently an open Late Bronze Age settlement, located on the plain at the left bank of the Guadiana river.
The field work identified a set of negative structures ascribed to the Late Bronze Age and some Late Roman and/or Islamic graves. The uncovered material culture is mainly framed in the Southwestern Late Bronze Age, with emphasis on the large set of shards of pattern-burnished pottery.
Os trabalhos de campo permitiram identificar um conjunto de estruturas negativas enquadráveis no Bronze Final e 5 sepulturas tardo-romanas e/ou islâmicas. O conjunto artefactual recolhido é genericamente enquadrável no Bronze Final do Sudoeste peninsular, com destaque para a colecção de cerâmicas de ornatos brunidos.
This paper discusses the preliminary results from the archaeological excavations undertaken at Santa Margarida (Serpa), an archaeological site, apparently an open Late Bronze Age settlement, located on the plain at the left bank of the Guadiana river.
The field work identified a set of negative structures ascribed to the Late Bronze Age and some Late Roman and/or Islamic graves. The uncovered material culture is mainly framed in the Southwestern Late Bronze Age, with emphasis on the large set of shards of pattern-burnished pottery.
No âmbito das pesquisas do CEPUNL sobre o Paleolítico médio e superior foram obtidas novas datas de radiocarbono em situações bem definidas do ponto de vista estratigráfico; com outras, permitem uma visão cronológica global aproximada. As... more
No âmbito das pesquisas do CEPUNL sobre o Paleolítico médio e superior foram obtidas novas datas de radiocarbono em situações bem definidas do ponto de vista estratigráfico; com outras, permitem uma visão cronológica global aproximada.
As datas não parecem distribuir-se ao longo dos tempos de modo aleatório. No estado actual dos conhecimentos, parecem corresponder a vários conjuntos: (a) 14 000 a 15 000 BP, Solutrense superior; (b) cerca de 20 000 BP, Solutrense; (c) com datas cerce de 25 000 BP, já Solutrense, e, a pouco mais de 26 000 BP, ainda Mustierense; (d) entre 29 000 e 31 000 BP, Mustierense. Demonstra-se a persistência de Mustierense muito após o limite; cerca de 31 000 BP e, por conseguinte, a dos seus autores neandertalianos.
Pela primeira vez, foi possível a datação do limite cronológico superior do terraço marinho de 5-8 metros (Tieeniano III) da Arrábida, bem como de jazidas sem indústrias ou com indústrias incaracterísticas.
As datas obtidas permitem correlacionar jazidas e depósitos com episódios da última glaciação.
Parece haver nítida correlação entre a ocupação de grutas e abrigos pelo Homem e episódios de clima mais desfavorável.
As datas não parecem distribuir-se ao longo dos tempos de modo aleatório. No estado actual dos conhecimentos, parecem corresponder a vários conjuntos: (a) 14 000 a 15 000 BP, Solutrense superior; (b) cerca de 20 000 BP, Solutrense; (c) com datas cerce de 25 000 BP, já Solutrense, e, a pouco mais de 26 000 BP, ainda Mustierense; (d) entre 29 000 e 31 000 BP, Mustierense. Demonstra-se a persistência de Mustierense muito após o limite; cerca de 31 000 BP e, por conseguinte, a dos seus autores neandertalianos.
Pela primeira vez, foi possível a datação do limite cronológico superior do terraço marinho de 5-8 metros (Tieeniano III) da Arrábida, bem como de jazidas sem indústrias ou com indústrias incaracterísticas.
As datas obtidas permitem correlacionar jazidas e depósitos com episódios da última glaciação.
Parece haver nítida correlação entre a ocupação de grutas e abrigos pelo Homem e episódios de clima mais desfavorável.
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A multidisciplinary analysis of Holocene sediments from Saltés Island (Tinto-Odiel estuary, SW Spain) has allowed to differentiate eigth sedimentary facies, according to their textural characteristics, internal structure, paleontology and... more
A multidisciplinary analysis of Holocene sediments from Saltés Island (Tinto-Odiel estuary, SW Spain) has allowed to differentiate eigth sedimentary facies, according to their textural characteristics, internal structure, paleontology and archaeological content. Its interpretation and the chronological datings carried out reconstruct a transition from a sandy tidal plain to a final occupation by a Roman salting (cetaria) between the 1st century BC to 5th century A. This evolution includes the deposit of washover fans derived from high-energy events between the 1st century BC to 3th century AD. The integration of these new data with others from previous research has allowed partially complete the palaeoenviromental reconstruction of the marine domain of the Tinto-Odiel estuary.
Keywords Sedimentary facies · Palaeontology · Archaeology · Roman evolution · Holocene palaeoenviromental reconstruction · Tinto-Odiel estuary
Keywords Sedimentary facies · Palaeontology · Archaeology · Roman evolution · Holocene palaeoenviromental reconstruction · Tinto-Odiel estuary
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The major changes that occurred in the southwestern estuaries of the Spanish Atlantic coast during the last 6500 yr BP were simultaneous to human settlement and therefore the understanding of their coastal evolution will help interpreting... more
The major changes that occurred in the southwestern estuaries of the Spanish Atlantic coast during the last 6500 yr BP were simultaneous to human settlement and therefore the understanding of their coastal evolution will help interpreting human patterns in these areas. The study of the morpho-sedimentary features of new outcrops appearing in the middle sector of Saltés Island (Huelva Estuary, Spain) has been used to develop a model to understand the complex evolution of sand barriers than can be applied to similar inlets along the Atlantic Iberian coast. The first human settlements (6000–4000 yr BP) in the early Huelva Estuary (Tinto and Odiel rivers) were located in the ancient coastal banks or in the nearby hills. From 4000 yr BP onwards, the estuarine sediments started to emerge as sand barriers and chenier plains, prograding towards the mouth. As the littoral strands stabilized morphologically, they were colonized by human settlements in successive periods, the oldest inland (Almendral) and more recent outward (Cascajera). The study of the upper sedimentary layers of La Cascajera barrier display a tempestitic sequence of landward progradational washover-fans. The calibrated and modelled AMS dates in marine shells provide a storminess time range between the second half of first century BCE and the entire first century CE. Sedimentary records are useful to evaluate environmental changes, either from natural or anthropogenic causes, such as global and climate change. The interrelationship between the archaeological findings (mainly salting fish factories and old ports) and the morpho-sedimentary evolution at the mouth of the Tinto and Odiel rivers allows us to highlight not only the Huelva Estuary's dynamics evolution, but also the possible regional patterns of human habitation from the beginning of the present sea-level highstand (middle Holocene).
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Resumo. Um levantamento exaustivo das datas de radiocarbono já publicadas para os contextos arqueológicos da Idade do Ferro orientalizante do território actualmente português permitiu a criação de uma sólida base de dados, que pode ser... more
Resumo. Um levantamento exaustivo das datas de radiocarbono já publicadas para os contextos arqueológicos da Idade do Ferro orientalizante do território actualmente português permitiu a criação de uma sólida base de dados, que pode ser analisada também em função desses mesmos contextos e da própria constituição das amostras. O conjunto de datas selecionadas, justamente as que, juntamente com os respectivos contextos, têm uma fiabilidade aceitável, foi objecto de um tratamento estatístico bayesiano, de modo a determinar as fronteiras temporais do Período Cultural em causa. Foi possível concluir que a presença frequente de artefactos e, assim, de populações com origem no Mediterrâneo é uma realidade a partir do séc. IX a.C., acompanhando, muito provavelmente, as primeiras instalações fenícias no território actualmente português. Se compararmos os dados agora apresentados com os dados arqueológicos e outros de cronologia absoluta que têm sido obtidos para o sul e este peninsular, é possível admitir que o litoral atlântico português e alguns territórios do interior alentejano tenham iniciado o processo de orientalização numa fase antiga, mas ainda assim várias décadas mais tarde do que em Huelva e em La Rebanadilla (Málaga), e no actual território tunisino (Útica). Palavras-chave: Idade do Ferro Orientalizante; Datas de Radiocarbono; Contextos Arqueológicos; Estatística Bayesiana; Cronologia Tradicional Radiocarbon chronology of Orientalysing Iron Age in Portugal. A critical view on radiometric archaeological data Abstract. An exhaustive survey of radiocarbon dates that have been published for the Orientalizing Iron Age archaeological contexts from the Portuguese territory allowed to build up a solid database, which can be analyzed not only in terms of these same contexts, but also in how the dated samples were made up. The set of selected dates namely those which, together with the respective contexts, have an acceptable reliability, has been the subject of a Bayesian statistical analysis in order to determine the temporal boundaries of the cultural period under consideration. It was concluded that the frequent presence of artifacts and consequently of populations with their origin in the Mediterranean are a reality from the IX century BC, most likely following the first Phoenician settlements or colonies in today's Portuguese territory. If we compare the data now presented with archaeological data and other absolute chronology that have been obtained to the southern and eastern Iberian Peninsula, it is possible to admit that the Portuguese Atlantic coast and some areas inland, in Alentejo, have started the process of orientalization in an old stage, but nevertheless several decades later than in Huelva and La Rebanadilla (Malaga) and in current Tunisian territory (Utica).
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A Horta do Cabral 6 localiza-se próximo da vila do Torrão, numa faixa aplanada com substrato de calcreto (caliço), no qual foram abertas e, posteriormente, colmatadas, estruturas negativas de tipo fossa. Nas 17 estruturas intervencionadas... more
A Horta do Cabral 6 localiza-se próximo da vila do Torrão, numa faixa aplanada com substrato de calcreto (caliço), no qual foram abertas e, posteriormente, colmatadas, estruturas negativas de tipo fossa. Nas 17 estruturas intervencionadas recuperaram-se elementos cerâmicos, pedra lascada e afeiçoada e fauna mamalógica, entre a qual se conta um veado juvenil completo e articulado, depositado intencionalmente numa das fossas e atribuível ao Bronze Final do Sudoeste, através da datação pelo radiocarbono de uma amostra do seu material ósseo. Foram ainda recolhidos e identificados elementos vegetais carbonizados. O carácter doméstico da ocupação do sítio parece evidente. Insere-se num conjunto de sítios caracterizados pelo agrupamento de estruturas negativas e, normalmente, sem estruturas positivas, que têm vindo a ser identificados em diversos locais do Sudoeste peninsular. Este tipo de jazida da Pré-História recente permaneceu desconhecido até muito recentemente.
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Some evidence recorded during the archaeological excavations carried out in the settlements of Passo Alto and Castelo de Serpa allows us to discuss the Orientalizing influx in the portuguese left bank of the Guadiana river. After the Late... more
Some evidence recorded during the archaeological excavations carried out in the settlements of Passo Alto and Castelo de Serpa allows us to discuss the Orientalizing influx in the portuguese left bank of the Guadiana river. After the Late Bronze Age occupation of Passo Alto, that ends at the end of the 8th century BC, an Iron Age occupation was also recorded, ascribed to the 6th century BC and attested by orthogonal constructions, grey ware and decorated pottery with fi nger impressions, vertical nipples and incisions. In Castelo de Serpa, a negative structure was identifi ed and interpreted as a ditch, with a V section, dug in the rock, possibly built during the Late Bronze Age. Imported and locally produced pottery was collected in fi lling sediments, allowing to think that the settlement was occupied, at least, in the 6th century BC and the ditch
was already sealed at the end of this century or at the beginning of the following, giving place to a new constructive phase.
was already sealed at the end of this century or at the beginning of the following, giving place to a new constructive phase.
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This work analyses the material and stratigraphic evidences recorded at the archaeological site of Cabeço Redondo (Moura), which result from archaeological excavations and the study of decontextualized artifacts recovered after the... more
This work analyses the material and stratigraphic evidences recorded at the archaeological site of Cabeço Redondo (Moura), which result from archaeological excavations and the study of decontextualized artifacts recovered after the destruction of the site. Data confirm the presence of a rural occupation and an edified space profoundly remodeled along several constructive phases. The stratigraphic data and the analysis of the artifacts reveal a chronology which covers the whole 5th century B.C., with the possibility that the occupation started at the late 6th century B.C. At the same time, it was possible to confirm the presence of a singular and monumental building on the Portuguese left bank of the Guadiana River, parallelizable with the ones existing on the Spanish Medium Guadiana bank.
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The Chalcolitic fortified settlement of Moita da Ladra is located on the top of a high volcanic chimney that dominates the Tagus estuary. The archaeological site was entirely excavated due to the exploitation prosecution of a basalt... more
The Chalcolitic fortified settlement of Moita da Ladra is located on the top of a high volcanic chimney that dominates the Tagus estuary. The archaeological site was entirely excavated due to the exploitation prosecution of a basalt quarry. The identified archaeological structures are both defensive and residential. The remains of an ellipsoidal wall with 80 m length and 44 m width including two massive towers and an entrance facing the Tagus estuary on the southern side. This settlement’s builders wanted it to be easily seen from the river and at a long distance. Besides its defensive function this archaeological site is intended to be a landmark in this landscape. The implantation of this Chalcolithic settlement is related with the access control of the large inner basin of Loures lowland, related with Sizandro river basin flux catchement in which Zambujal fortified settlement is located. The site has only one occupation phase with few but diversified archaeological remains characterized with both decorated ceramics of “folha de acacia/ crucífera” group and bell beakers ceramics represented by maritime vases and vases with geometric decoration. Radiocarbon dating points out to the occupation of this site during the second half of the 3rd millennium BC, the same of other high fortified settlements of this region, such as Penha Verde, Sintra or Leceia, Oeiras. The coexistence of both bell beakers ceramics and non beaker’s ceramics of “folha de acacia/ crucífera” group has an important cultural meaning that is valued in this article.
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Archaeological excavations carried out in recent years under investigation and preventive archaeology projects, in the Baixo Alentejo’s municipalities of Ferreira do Alentejo, Beja and Serpa, on both banks of the Middle Guadiana river... more
Archaeological excavations carried out in recent years under investigation and preventive archaeology projects, in the Baixo Alentejo’s municipalities of Ferreira do Alentejo, Beja and Serpa, on both banks of the Middle Guadiana river allowed to record sites dating from the second quarter of the Ist millennium BC, in areas of slightly rugged relief. These sites reflect the role played by the plain at the level of settlement and allow discussing the questions of the regional Late Bronze Age continuity taking into account the orientalizing / tartessian influx in this territory. This discussion will be based on the ceramic artifacts, that maintain a strong influence of the Late Bronze Age pottery production, but among which there are also some exogenous elements.
Resumo A estação arqueológica Malhada do Vale da Água (Ferreira do Alentejo, Beja) foi intervencionada no âmbito dos trabalhos arqueológicos decorrentes da minimização de impactes sobre o património cultural decorrentes da execução do... more
Resumo A estação arqueológica Malhada do Vale da Água (Ferreira do Alentejo, Beja) foi intervencionada no âmbito dos trabalhos arqueológicos decorrentes da minimização de impactes sobre o património cultural decorrentes da execução do Bloco de Rega de Ervidel – fase de obra EDIA S.A. Os trabalhos efetuados permitiram verificar a existência de uma extensa área de construção de estruturas em negativo, localizada numa área aplanada junto do Barranco do Xacafre. Os enchimentos destas estruturas apresentavam elementos que remetem para uma longa diacronia de ocupação, tendo-se registado contextos articuláveis com a Pré-história Recente, o período Tardo-romano e a Antiguidade Tardia, o período Islâmico e a Época Moderna/Contemporânea. A ocupação pré-histórica deste sítio compreende um conjunto de fossas e um valado/ fosso, as quais apresentam, na sua maioria, uma componente artefactual articulável com a Idade do Bronze. O presente estudo centrou-se em quatro dessas fossas (Sondagens nº 3, 4, 5 e 6) devido à presença nos seus enchimentos de diversos vestígios de produção metalúrgica. Contextos com esses vestígios foram datados pelo radiocarbono como pertencentes ao final do segundo – início do terceiro quartel do segundo milénio a.C., sendo portanto enquadráveis no Bronze Pleno. Análises preliminares por espectrometria de fluorescência de raios X, dispersiva de ener-gias (EDXRF) indicaram que os cadinhos cerâmicos, escórias, nódulos metálicos e minérios registados naquelas fossas estão associados com a produção de cobre e bronze. Os cadinhos e as escórias onde foi identificada esta liga são os vestígios mais antigos de produção local de bronze no sudoeste ibérico. A quantidade e o tamanho assinaláveis dos vestígios metalúrgicos recuperados na Malhada do Vale da Água, designadamente das escórias e cadinhos, sugerem a produção de metal numa escala mais elevada do que tem sido registado, em especial considerando a região e o período cronológico em causa.
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O sítio arqueológico da Horta de João Lopes situa-se na bacia do Guadiana, na freguesia de Selmes, concelho da Vidigueira, tendo sido intervencionado por uma equipa da Empresa Arqueologia e Património, Lda., no âmbito dos trabalhos de... more
O sítio arqueológico da Horta de João Lopes situa-se na bacia do Guadiana, na freguesia de Selmes, concelho da Vidigueira, tendo sido intervencionado por uma equipa da Empresa Arqueologia e Património, Lda., no âmbito dos trabalhos de minimização de impactos sobre o património cultural devido à construção do Circuito Hidráulico de Pedrógão. Foram realizadas 15 sondagens englobando diversas estruturas negativas pré-históricas, designadamente fossas tipo " silo " e estruturas de planta em " osso " , além de outras já atribuíveis a períodos históricos. Da Fossa 9 provem um artefacto, um anel metálico, encontrado in situ associado à inumação de um indivíduo adulto realizada nessa estrutura negativa. A análise por micro-EDXRF do anel identificou o chumbo como constituinte principal do artefacto. A datação pelo radiocarbono do esqueleto permitiu atribuir-lhe uma cronologia da primeira metade do II milénio a.C., na transição do 1.º para o 2.º quartel. Deste modo, estamos perante o mais antigo artefacto de chumbo até agora encontrado na Península Ibérica, muito anterior à primeira produção deste metal na Península, tendo em conta que a mesma terá ocorrido com a introdução da copelação da prata durante o Período Orientalizante. Deste facto serão tiradas ilações, quer no referente às eventuais trocas a longa distância, quer ao estatuto social dos inumados em fossa durante o Bronze do Sudoeste. The archaeological site of Horta de João Lopes (Selmes, Vidigueira), located in the Guadiana basin, was subjected to archaeological excavations in connection with the mitigation strategy of the threatened archaeological heritage due to the construction of the Hydraulic Circuit of Pedrógão, related with the Alqueva Dam. The field work comprised 15 archaeological surveys having several prehistoric negative structures been recorded, namely prehistoric pits/silos and " bone " plan structures, in addition to other structures already ascribed to historical periods. A finger ring was found in situ on an adult buried in a foetal position in Pit 9. Micro-EDXRF analysis of the artefact has identified lead as the major constituent. The radiocarbon dating of the skeleton allowed assigning a chronology in the transition from the 1st to the 2nd quarter of the second millennium BC. Therefore, this finger ring is the oldest lead artefact ever recorded in the Iberian Peninsula, with a chronology much earlier than the first production of this metal in the region, considering that this has occurred with the introduction of the silver cupellation during the Orientalizing period. Following these results several inferences will be discussed regarding the trade of goods over long distances and the social status of individuals buried in pits during the Southwestern Bronze Age.
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The distinctive grave goods from Palhais (Beja, Portugal). New insights into the metallurgical evolution under Orientalizing influence in the southwestern end of Iberia | El ajuar de la necrópolis de Palhais (Beja, Portugal). Nuevos conocimientos sobre la evolución metalúrgica bajo la influencia ...more
Research Interests: Archaeology, Iron Age Iberian Peninsula (Archaeology), Archaeometallurgy, Iron Age, Arqueologia, and 12 moreEdad Del Hierro, Metalurgia, Idade do Ferro, Arqueometalurgia, Necropolis, Death and Burial Archaeology, Beja, Beringel, Palhais, Metais, Arqueolmetalurgia, and Necrópole I Idade Do Ferro De Palahais
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A questão da cronologia absoluta do Neolítico final da Estremadura portuguesa conheceu recentemente avanços significativos, através da concretização de um programa de datações pelo radiocarbono no Laboratório de Isótopos Ambientais do... more
A questão da cronologia absoluta do Neolítico final da Estremadura portuguesa conheceu recentemente avanços significativos, através da concretização de um programa de datações pelo radiocarbono no Laboratório de Isótopos Ambientais do Departamento de Química do ITN, financiado pelo IPPC (actual IPPAR) e pela Câmara Municipal de Oeiras, aplicado ao povoado
pré-histórico de Leceia (Oeiras). Trata-se, com efeito, de local primordial para o estabelecimento da sequência cronológico-cultural desde o Neolítico final ao fim
do Calcolítico da Estremadura. Particularmente, a ocupação neolítica da estação encontra-se evidenciada
por extensa e constante camada arqueológica - a Camada 4 - na base da referida sequência estratigráfica
(CARDOSO, 1994),
O conteúdo arqueológico de tal camada é coerente e uniforme, qualquer que seja o local da estação onde aquela tenha sido escavada, facto que confere aos resultados cronométricos uma representatividade e significado cultural acrescidos. Tais resultados consubstanciam-se, presentemente, em nove datas, efectuadas sobre ossos ou carvões. Uma delas (ICEN-827), porém, é nitidamente aberrante (CARDOSO
& SOARES, 1995),
pré-histórico de Leceia (Oeiras). Trata-se, com efeito, de local primordial para o estabelecimento da sequência cronológico-cultural desde o Neolítico final ao fim
do Calcolítico da Estremadura. Particularmente, a ocupação neolítica da estação encontra-se evidenciada
por extensa e constante camada arqueológica - a Camada 4 - na base da referida sequência estratigráfica
(CARDOSO, 1994),
O conteúdo arqueológico de tal camada é coerente e uniforme, qualquer que seja o local da estação onde aquela tenha sido escavada, facto que confere aos resultados cronométricos uma representatividade e significado cultural acrescidos. Tais resultados consubstanciam-se, presentemente, em nove datas, efectuadas sobre ossos ou carvões. Uma delas (ICEN-827), porém, é nitidamente aberrante (CARDOSO
& SOARES, 1995),
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The proto‑historic settlement of Santa Sofia is located at the urban area of the town of Vila Franca de Xira (Lisbon, Portugal). The archaeological excavation took place during summer of the years 2006 and 2007 and allowed characterizing... more
The proto‑historic settlement of Santa Sofia is located at the urban area of the town of
Vila Franca de Xira (Lisbon, Portugal). The archaeological excavation took place during
summer of the years 2006 and 2007 and allowed characterizing the human occupation of
this site and its spatial organization. The occupation sequence is composed of five phases.
From the first one, with a Chalcolithic chronology, a ditch and a hut circle were found; this
phase is followed by a second human occupation, with a material culture apparently belonging
to Late Bronze Age, but where foreign material ascribed to western Phoenician world
was already circulating. Following this phase a thick abandon level was found superposed by
a Roman level followed by a Medieval archaeological context.
The archaeological excavation allowed characterizing the proto‑historic site. Three huts
with an oval plan were recorded. The huts architecture, the site location, the surrounding
landscape and the material culture, all this points out to a typical small Late Bronze Age
agricultural site of the Lisbon peninsula. Nevertheless, Phoenician materials recorded at the
site point out to regular exchange with the large orientalizing settlements located upstream
and downstream in the Tagus valley. Radiocarbon dating allowed determining an accurate
chronology for the recorded proto‑historic contexts: the second half of the VIII century B.C.
or the VII century B.C. for the beginning of the orientalizing contacts that can be prolonged
to the VI century B.C.
Vila Franca de Xira (Lisbon, Portugal). The archaeological excavation took place during
summer of the years 2006 and 2007 and allowed characterizing the human occupation of
this site and its spatial organization. The occupation sequence is composed of five phases.
From the first one, with a Chalcolithic chronology, a ditch and a hut circle were found; this
phase is followed by a second human occupation, with a material culture apparently belonging
to Late Bronze Age, but where foreign material ascribed to western Phoenician world
was already circulating. Following this phase a thick abandon level was found superposed by
a Roman level followed by a Medieval archaeological context.
The archaeological excavation allowed characterizing the proto‑historic site. Three huts
with an oval plan were recorded. The huts architecture, the site location, the surrounding
landscape and the material culture, all this points out to a typical small Late Bronze Age
agricultural site of the Lisbon peninsula. Nevertheless, Phoenician materials recorded at the
site point out to regular exchange with the large orientalizing settlements located upstream
and downstream in the Tagus valley. Radiocarbon dating allowed determining an accurate
chronology for the recorded proto‑historic contexts: the second half of the VIII century B.C.
or the VII century B.C. for the beginning of the orientalizing contacts that can be prolonged
to the VI century B.C.
Oral: Anthropic interference versus littoral dynamics: Aguda (Northern Portugal) breakwater, Holocene evolution and recent coastal erosion Poster: S. Paio (Labruge, Vila do Conde, Northern Portugal). A protected area and its... more
Oral: Anthropic interference versus littoral dynamics: Aguda (Northern Portugal) breakwater, Holocene
evolution and recent coastal erosion
Poster: S. Paio (Labruge, Vila do Conde, Northern Portugal). A protected area and its geomorphologic value
evolution and recent coastal erosion
Poster: S. Paio (Labruge, Vila do Conde, Northern Portugal). A protected area and its geomorphologic value
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Resumo Foram identificadas e alvo de escavação arqueológica diversas estruturas negativas (ca-torze fossas) situadas próximo da villa romana de Pisões (Beja), nas quais foi registada uma elevada diacronia. Assim, o Neolítico encontra-se... more
Resumo Foram identificadas e alvo de escavação arqueológica diversas estruturas negativas (ca-torze fossas) situadas próximo da villa romana de Pisões (Beja), nas quais foi registada uma elevada diacronia. Assim, o Neolítico encontra-se representado por duas fossas funerárias. Outras estruturas negativas puderam ser atribuídas ao Calcolítico. O Bronze do Sudoeste, designadamente o Bronze Final, encontra-se também bem representado numa das fossas por diversa cerâmica onde se destaca a de ornatos brunidos. À 2a Idade do Ferro, prolon-gando-se a sua ocupação até à Época Romana, são atribuídas duas fossas, enquanto dois outros contextos são de cronologia relativamente recente (séc. XVIII). Abstract During the archaeological excavation encompassed in the mitigation of impacts on cultural heritage due to the implementation of an irrigation plan (5 Réis pipeline) associated with the Alqueva Dam, several negative structures (fourteen pits), located near the Roman villa of Pisões (Beja), were recorded. As often happens in these lowland archaeological sites, located on soils with a large agricultural capacity, a high diachrony of the archaeological contexts was identified. Thus, the Neolithic is represented by two collective burial structures, having been recovered in one of them fragments of bracelets made of Glycy-meris shells, a small polished stone adze and a flint blade. Other negative structures could be attributed to the Chalcolithic Period, where several dishes and bowls with thickened edges were recorded. The Southwestern Bronze Age, particularly the Late Bronze Age, is also well represented by a lot of pottery collected in one of the pits, standing out the pattern burnished decoration of some vessels. To the Second Iron Age and Roman Period are assigned two negative structures, in which diverse pottery were recorded, some of it with incised decoration or with plastic cords, plus a fragment of amphora of Tiñosa type and a thin-walled vessel fragment of Mayet's form III. Finally, two other contexts are of relatively recent chronology (XVIII century). Radiocarbon dating of some of these contexts allowed the assignment of a more precise chronology, within the mentioned cultural periods.
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Recent archaeological excavations in the Portuguese region of Baixo Alentejo, carried out under the implementation of the irrigation project connected with the Alqueva Dam, have brought to light important finds ascribed to the... more
Recent archaeological excavations in the Portuguese region of Baixo Alentejo, carried out under the implementation of the irrigation project connected with the Alqueva Dam, have brought to light important finds ascribed to the South-western Iberian Bronze Age. Among those new finds are funerary hypogea, dated from the second quarter of the 2nd Millennium BC. Each funerary structure is composed by an atrium connected with a chamber (an artificial cave cut into the rock) closed by vertical slabs
A questão da cronologia absoluta do Neolítico final da Estremadura portuguesa conheceu recentemente avanços significativos, através da concretização de um programa de datações pelo radiocarbono no Laboratório de Isótopos Ambientais do... more
A questão da cronologia absoluta do Neolítico final da Estremadura portuguesa conheceu recentemente avanços significativos, através da concretização de um programa de datações pelo radiocarbono no Laboratório de Isótopos Ambientais do Departamento de Química do ITN financiado pelo IPPC (actual IPPAR) e pela Câmara Municipal de Oeiras, aplicado ao povoado pré-histórico de Leceia (Oeiras). Trata-se, com efeito, de local primordial para o estabelecimento da sequência cronológico-cultural desde o Neolítico final ao fim do Calcolítico da Estremadura. Particularmente, a ocupação neolítica da estação encontra-se evidenciada por extensa e constante camada arqueológica - a Camada 4 - na base da referida sequência estratigráfica (CARDOSO, 1994).
O conteúdo arqueológico de tal camada é coerente e uniforme, qualquer que seja o local da estação onde aquela tenha sido escavada, facto que confere aos resultados cronométricos uma representatividade e significado cultural acrescidos. Tais resultados consubstanciam-se, presentemente, em nove datas, efectuadas sobre ossos ou carvões. Uma delas (ICEN-827), porém, é nitidamente aberrante (CARDOSO & SOARES, 1995).
Este excepcional conjunto cronométrico justificava aproveitamento imediato, à escala regional, como elemento de aferição de outras datas que se fossem obtendo, especialmente de necrópoles, cuja eventual diversidade de conteúdos artefactuais, face aos documentados nos povoados, poderiam motivar justificadas hesitações quanto à sua cabal integração cronológico-cultural. Dentre aquelas, avultavam as grutas artificiais, cuja cronologia e respectiva integração cultural foi recentemente objecto de análise e discussão (GONÇALVES, 1992/94).
O conteúdo arqueológico de tal camada é coerente e uniforme, qualquer que seja o local da estação onde aquela tenha sido escavada, facto que confere aos resultados cronométricos uma representatividade e significado cultural acrescidos. Tais resultados consubstanciam-se, presentemente, em nove datas, efectuadas sobre ossos ou carvões. Uma delas (ICEN-827), porém, é nitidamente aberrante (CARDOSO & SOARES, 1995).
Este excepcional conjunto cronométrico justificava aproveitamento imediato, à escala regional, como elemento de aferição de outras datas que se fossem obtendo, especialmente de necrópoles, cuja eventual diversidade de conteúdos artefactuais, face aos documentados nos povoados, poderiam motivar justificadas hesitações quanto à sua cabal integração cronológico-cultural. Dentre aquelas, avultavam as grutas artificiais, cuja cronologia e respectiva integração cultural foi recentemente objecto de análise e discussão (GONÇALVES, 1992/94).
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Nos últimos quatro anos, trabalhos de investigação, conjugados com outros de carácter preventivo, permitiram redefinir o conhecimento existente sobre o Bronze Final do Sudoeste Peninsular, em particular na área ocupada pela bacia do Médio... more
Nos últimos quatro anos, trabalhos de investigação, conjugados com outros de carácter preventivo, permitiram redefinir
o conhecimento existente sobre o Bronze Final do Sudoeste Peninsular, em particular na área ocupada pela bacia
do Médio Guadiana, em ambas as margens do rio, no território alentejano. De facto, a par do já assinalado povoamento
de altura, com ou sem fortificações, registam-se ocupações de planície, que podem estender-se por vastas áreas. Estes
povoados abertos, embora já identificados noutras regiões peninsulares e conhecidos na bibliografia espanhola como
«campos de hoyos», constituem uma novidade no registo arqueológico do Alentejo. Implantam-se em terrenos férteis,
beneficiando de fontes secundárias, embora permanentes, de água e denotam, nalguns casos, a simbiose do espaço habitacional com o funerário.
o conhecimento existente sobre o Bronze Final do Sudoeste Peninsular, em particular na área ocupada pela bacia
do Médio Guadiana, em ambas as margens do rio, no território alentejano. De facto, a par do já assinalado povoamento
de altura, com ou sem fortificações, registam-se ocupações de planície, que podem estender-se por vastas áreas. Estes
povoados abertos, embora já identificados noutras regiões peninsulares e conhecidos na bibliografia espanhola como
«campos de hoyos», constituem uma novidade no registo arqueológico do Alentejo. Implantam-se em terrenos férteis,
beneficiando de fontes secundárias, embora permanentes, de água e denotam, nalguns casos, a simbiose do espaço habitacional com o funerário.
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O Outeiro Redondo (Sesimbra) é um sítio arqueológico importante da Estremadura Portuguesa, predominantemente ocupado durante o Calcolítico Pleno/Final (segunda metade do III Milénio a.C.). Este estudo foca ‑se na caracterização elementar... more
O Outeiro Redondo (Sesimbra) é um sítio arqueológico importante da Estremadura Portuguesa, predominantemente ocupado durante o Calcolítico Pleno/Final (segunda metade do III Milénio a.C.). Este estudo foca ‑se na caracterização elementar e microestrutural de 12 artefactos em liga de cobre e de um fragmento de cadinho provenientes deste sítio, contribuindo assim para o conhecimento da metalurgia primitiva naquela região. A metodologia aplicada consistiu em espectrometria de fluorescência de raios ‑X dispersiva de energias, microscopia óptica, microscopia electrónica de varrimento com microanálise de raios ‑X e microdureza Vickers. O arsénio está presente em todos os fragmentos metálicos, quer como impureza (<2 wt%), quer como elemento
de liga (>2 wt%), os quais apresentam constituintes microestruturais característicos de diversos processos termomecânicos. O cadinho mostra evidências de uso em operações metalúrgicas de redução de minérios.
de liga (>2 wt%), os quais apresentam constituintes microestruturais característicos de diversos processos termomecânicos. O cadinho mostra evidências de uso em operações metalúrgicas de redução de minérios.
Research Interests:
Most Roman hydraulic systems were made with lead plumbing manufactured by casting lead sheets which were sealed by joining the edges with a molten metal. Modern studies suggest that the Romans used distinct techniques for joining the lead... more
Most Roman hydraulic systems were made with lead plumbing manufactured by casting lead sheets which were sealed by joining the edges with a molten metal. Modern studies suggest that the Romans used distinct techniques for joining the lead pipes (fistulae aquariae), such as welding (with lead) and soldering (with a tin–lead alloy). Micro-EDXRF and micro-PIXE analyses were used for micro-chemical characterization of joining areas of 13 water lead pipes collected in Roman archaeological contexts fromConimbriga and Augusta Emerita. Results indicate that two lead pipes from Conimbriga were sealed with a solder alloy, having a Sn content close to the
eutectic point (61.9 wt.%). The remaining fistula seals have relatively low contents of Sn and also of other elements
such as Sb and Cu. Micro-analyses carried out along the pipes and welding regions show the use of lead with some impurities on both areas, while the elemental mapping of tin–lead solders shows the presence of the α (lead-rich) and β (tin-rich) phases.
eutectic point (61.9 wt.%). The remaining fistula seals have relatively low contents of Sn and also of other elements
such as Sb and Cu. Micro-analyses carried out along the pipes and welding regions show the use of lead with some impurities on both areas, while the elemental mapping of tin–lead solders shows the presence of the α (lead-rich) and β (tin-rich) phases.
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Grave goods from the Early Iron Age necropolis of Palhais offers a unique opportunity to study the metallurgy introduced in Southern Portugal by Orientalizing influence. Metals include two sets of instruments for body grooming, an... more
Grave goods from the Early Iron Age necropolis of
Palhais offers a unique opportunity to study the metallurgy
introduced in Southern Portugal by Orientalizing
influence. Metals include two sets of instruments for body
grooming, an “Alcores fibula” and a belt-lock, whose
typology and/or decoration shows an Orientalizing inspiration.
The composition and manufacture of artefacts
is determined by conventional EDXRF, Micro-EDXRF,
SEM-EDS, optical microscopy and Vickers microhardness
testing. Elemental compositions indicate low tin
bronzes (4.4 ± 2.4%) evidencing significant use of scrap
as inexpensive raw-material or intentional alloying with
low tin amounts for economical or technological reasons.
Post-casting work involved hammering and annealing operations
showing that these grave goods were produced
as functional artefacts. A comparison with Late Bronze
Age and Early Iron Age artefacts from Southern Portugal
shows that the low tin contents are common among the
Phoenician bronzes. Moreover, an assessment of the co-
eval metals from the Southwestern Iberian Peninsula identifies
other features of the Orientalizing metallurgy, such
as an increase in unalloyed coppers and leaded bronzes,
which can be related to the diversification of the bronze
production methods during this period.
Palhais offers a unique opportunity to study the metallurgy
introduced in Southern Portugal by Orientalizing
influence. Metals include two sets of instruments for body
grooming, an “Alcores fibula” and a belt-lock, whose
typology and/or decoration shows an Orientalizing inspiration.
The composition and manufacture of artefacts
is determined by conventional EDXRF, Micro-EDXRF,
SEM-EDS, optical microscopy and Vickers microhardness
testing. Elemental compositions indicate low tin
bronzes (4.4 ± 2.4%) evidencing significant use of scrap
as inexpensive raw-material or intentional alloying with
low tin amounts for economical or technological reasons.
Post-casting work involved hammering and annealing operations
showing that these grave goods were produced
as functional artefacts. A comparison with Late Bronze
Age and Early Iron Age artefacts from Southern Portugal
shows that the low tin contents are common among the
Phoenician bronzes. Moreover, an assessment of the co-
eval metals from the Southwestern Iberian Peninsula identifies
other features of the Orientalizing metallurgy, such
as an increase in unalloyed coppers and leaded bronzes,
which can be related to the diversification of the bronze
production methods during this period.
Research Interests:
O desenvolvimento cultural dentro de uma determinada comunidade pré ou proto-histórica poderá ser reconstituído a partir do registo arqueológico, o qual é, como se sabe, muito parcial em relação à realidade que representa. Os rituais... more
O desenvolvimento cultural dentro de uma determinada comunidade pré ou proto-histórica poderá ser reconstituído
a partir do registo arqueológico, o qual é, como se sabe, muito parcial em relação à realidade que representa.
Os rituais dessa comunidade, indiciadores do seu desenvolvimento cultural, podem ser vistos como mecanismos
que dão forma às suas crenças, à sua ideologia e à sua identidade ou como fontes de poder para aqueles
que os criaram, que os controlavam ou que tomavam parte neles, podendo revelar bastante acerca dessa comunidade
e da sua dinâmica (KYRIAKIDIS, 2004, 2007).
Existem diversas definições para ritual, as quais estão longe de obter uma aceitação generalizada (RENFREW,
2007; MARCUS, 2007). Na definição de ritual são usados conceitos como estruturado, repetitivo, ordenado, intencional,
raro, não doméstico, os quais são vagos, por vezes paradoxais, mesmo contraditórios (MORRIS & RANDALL,
2008). Ritual é muitas vezes associado exclusivamente a crenças religiosas e espirituais. Os antropólogos sociais
têm, contudo, mostrado que existem muitos diferentes tipos de rituais. Podem ser seculares, religiosos, relacionados
com a classe social ou com o sexo, pessoais, etc. Os arqueólogos, por seu lado, têm, por vezes, utilizado
o termo ritual por duas razões que estão, em geral, estreitamente associadas: quando o artefacto ou contexto se
afasta de uma funcionalidade pragmática do quotidiano ou quando não é compreendido (BRÜCK, 1999). Na
ausência de melhor definição, associaremos o conceito de ritual a realidades do registo arqueológico que possam
traduzir um simbolismo ao nível de crenças e de gestos significantes, tanto na esfera do quotidiano, como na do
mundo funerário.
Esta comunicação, baseada essencialmente nas intervenções arqueológicas de que temos sido responsáveis
em algumas áreas da bacia do Guadiana, abarca um período cronológico balizado pelo denominado Horizonte
de Ferradeira, de um lado, e pelas primeiras manifestações orientalizantes, do outro, integrável naquilo que H.
Schubart (1975) denominou de Bronze do Sudoeste.
a partir do registo arqueológico, o qual é, como se sabe, muito parcial em relação à realidade que representa.
Os rituais dessa comunidade, indiciadores do seu desenvolvimento cultural, podem ser vistos como mecanismos
que dão forma às suas crenças, à sua ideologia e à sua identidade ou como fontes de poder para aqueles
que os criaram, que os controlavam ou que tomavam parte neles, podendo revelar bastante acerca dessa comunidade
e da sua dinâmica (KYRIAKIDIS, 2004, 2007).
Existem diversas definições para ritual, as quais estão longe de obter uma aceitação generalizada (RENFREW,
2007; MARCUS, 2007). Na definição de ritual são usados conceitos como estruturado, repetitivo, ordenado, intencional,
raro, não doméstico, os quais são vagos, por vezes paradoxais, mesmo contraditórios (MORRIS & RANDALL,
2008). Ritual é muitas vezes associado exclusivamente a crenças religiosas e espirituais. Os antropólogos sociais
têm, contudo, mostrado que existem muitos diferentes tipos de rituais. Podem ser seculares, religiosos, relacionados
com a classe social ou com o sexo, pessoais, etc. Os arqueólogos, por seu lado, têm, por vezes, utilizado
o termo ritual por duas razões que estão, em geral, estreitamente associadas: quando o artefacto ou contexto se
afasta de uma funcionalidade pragmática do quotidiano ou quando não é compreendido (BRÜCK, 1999). Na
ausência de melhor definição, associaremos o conceito de ritual a realidades do registo arqueológico que possam
traduzir um simbolismo ao nível de crenças e de gestos significantes, tanto na esfera do quotidiano, como na do
mundo funerário.
Esta comunicação, baseada essencialmente nas intervenções arqueológicas de que temos sido responsáveis
em algumas áreas da bacia do Guadiana, abarca um período cronológico balizado pelo denominado Horizonte
de Ferradeira, de um lado, e pelas primeiras manifestações orientalizantes, do outro, integrável naquilo que H.
Schubart (1975) denominou de Bronze do Sudoeste.
Research Interests:
Metals and metallurgical remains from Outeiro do Circo were subjected to elemental and microstructural characterization. Radiocarbon dating of contexts established a chronology of last quarter of the II Millennium BC. A crucible was... more
Metals and metallurgical remains from Outeiro do Circo were subjected to elemental and microstructural characterization. Radiocarbon dating of contexts established a chronology of last quarter of the II Millennium BC. A crucible was associated with gold production, while bronze nodules were related with bronze metallurgy.
A casting jet evidenced the pouring of a bronze alloy with similar composition to the remaining metallic artefacts, with the exception of an item, which reduced tin content probably is due to the use of scrap. The manufacture involved hammering and annealing operations. The analysed materials are in agreement with the
coeval metallurgy from southern Portugal, being characterized by binary bronzes with suitable contents of tin.
A casting jet evidenced the pouring of a bronze alloy with similar composition to the remaining metallic artefacts, with the exception of an item, which reduced tin content probably is due to the use of scrap. The manufacture involved hammering and annealing operations. The analysed materials are in agreement with the
coeval metallurgy from southern Portugal, being characterized by binary bronzes with suitable contents of tin.
Research Interests:
Hypogea and stone cists are common graves in use during the Middle Bronze Age in South-Western Iberia. The cist stone lid is sometimes covered with a black greasy earth, suggesting that an organic material is contained in the... more
Hypogea and stone cists are common graves in use during
the Middle Bronze Age in South-Western Iberia. The cist
stone lid is sometimes covered with a black greasy earth,
suggesting that an organic material is contained in the
sediment. A similar material also involves the vertical slabs
that close the chamber of some hypogea.
The black greasy earth of one of those cists was sampled
and analyzed using infrared spectroscopy and gas
chromatography. IR analysis indicated the presence of
organic substances, the main constituent being a fatty
material. The identification of cholesterol proves an animal
origin for that fatty material. The chromatograms were
compared with those of well known samples, indicating that
probably the fat detected in the earth is that of swine.
The black earth with a greasy aspect that involved the slabs
closing the chamber of three funerary hypogea was also
sampled and analyzed using a Py-GC/MS and a FTIR
spectrometer. The spectra obtained were compared with
reference spectra. Two organic materials were identified:
beeswax and propolis.
These funerary practices suggest the importance that the
Middle Bronze Age people put in the preservation of the
corpses buried in their graves in South-Western Iberia.
the Middle Bronze Age in South-Western Iberia. The cist
stone lid is sometimes covered with a black greasy earth,
suggesting that an organic material is contained in the
sediment. A similar material also involves the vertical slabs
that close the chamber of some hypogea.
The black greasy earth of one of those cists was sampled
and analyzed using infrared spectroscopy and gas
chromatography. IR analysis indicated the presence of
organic substances, the main constituent being a fatty
material. The identification of cholesterol proves an animal
origin for that fatty material. The chromatograms were
compared with those of well known samples, indicating that
probably the fat detected in the earth is that of swine.
The black earth with a greasy aspect that involved the slabs
closing the chamber of three funerary hypogea was also
sampled and analyzed using a Py-GC/MS and a FTIR
spectrometer. The spectra obtained were compared with
reference spectra. Two organic materials were identified:
beeswax and propolis.
These funerary practices suggest the importance that the
Middle Bronze Age people put in the preservation of the
corpses buried in their graves in South-Western Iberia.
Research Interests:
"Middle Bronze Age was a transition period in Iberia, characterised by the emergence of bronzes after more than a millennium of a conservative metallurgy of copper with arsenic. Despite its importance there are no relevant studies on MBA... more
"Middle Bronze Age was a transition period in Iberia, characterised by the emergence of bronzes after more than a millennium of a conservative metallurgy of copper with arsenic. Despite its importance there are no relevant studies on MBA metallurgy in Southwestern Iberia due to the absence, until recently, of known settlements and the scarcity of metals. However, recent archaeological excavations have brought to light important finds dated to the SW Iberian Bronze Age such as new burial monuments
and open settlements. About 50 artefacts from hypogea, cists and domestic contexts (pits) from Torre Velha 3 (Serpa) and Monte da Cabida 3 (Évora) were analysed by micro-EDXRF, reflected light microscopy, SEMeEDS and Vickers microhardness testing. Radiocarbon dating of their archaeological contexts established a chronology of w1900e1300 cal BC. Despite presenting different burial practices both sites share the almost exclusive use of arsenical coppers (4.1 1.0 and 4.2 1.5 wt.% As, respectively).
However, few awls and a dagger from Torre Velha 3 are among the earliest evidence of bronze in SW Iberia, being dated to the second quarter of the 2nd Millennium BC. These bronzes are similar
(9.6 1.2 wt.% Sn) to LBA alloys suggesting trade with a region with a developed bronze metallurgy. The emergence of bronze in SW Iberia during the first half of the 2nd Millennium BC points to an earlier introduction or a more rapid expansion than initially assumed. Nevertheless, these arsenical coppers and bronzes display a similar manufacture involving hammering and annealing cycles. A final hammering increased the hardness, which could be higher for bronzes. Arsenical coppers display variable operational
conditions often with poorer thermomechanical work as expected from a prehistoric technology. A bronze dagger with silver rivets evidences the prestige value of early bronzes to MBA communities.
Similarly, an arsenical copper dagger with silver coloured rivets shows the ability of MBA metallurgists to replicate prestige objects with indigenous knowledge."
and open settlements. About 50 artefacts from hypogea, cists and domestic contexts (pits) from Torre Velha 3 (Serpa) and Monte da Cabida 3 (Évora) were analysed by micro-EDXRF, reflected light microscopy, SEMeEDS and Vickers microhardness testing. Radiocarbon dating of their archaeological contexts established a chronology of w1900e1300 cal BC. Despite presenting different burial practices both sites share the almost exclusive use of arsenical coppers (4.1 1.0 and 4.2 1.5 wt.% As, respectively).
However, few awls and a dagger from Torre Velha 3 are among the earliest evidence of bronze in SW Iberia, being dated to the second quarter of the 2nd Millennium BC. These bronzes are similar
(9.6 1.2 wt.% Sn) to LBA alloys suggesting trade with a region with a developed bronze metallurgy. The emergence of bronze in SW Iberia during the first half of the 2nd Millennium BC points to an earlier introduction or a more rapid expansion than initially assumed. Nevertheless, these arsenical coppers and bronzes display a similar manufacture involving hammering and annealing cycles. A final hammering increased the hardness, which could be higher for bronzes. Arsenical coppers display variable operational
conditions often with poorer thermomechanical work as expected from a prehistoric technology. A bronze dagger with silver rivets evidences the prestige value of early bronzes to MBA communities.
Similarly, an arsenical copper dagger with silver coloured rivets shows the ability of MBA metallurgists to replicate prestige objects with indigenous knowledge."
Research Interests:
The archaeological site of Moita da Ladra is an emblematic settlement located at Vila Franca de Xira (Portugal), occupied predominantly during the second half of the 3rd millennia BC (Chalcolithic period). The present study focuses on the... more
The archaeological site of Moita da Ladra is an emblematic settlement located at Vila Franca de Xira (Portugal), occupied predominantly during the second half of the 3rd millennia BC (Chalcolithic period). The present study focuses on the chemical and microstructural characterization of selected artefacts and metallic nodules (metallurgical remains) found there. Its goal is to contribute to a better comprehension of the primitive copper-based metallurgy on the Portuguese Estremadura, where other important chalcolithic sites are located .
Research Interests:
Virgínia A. Martins, José F. Santos, Andreas Mackensen, João Alveirinho Dias, Sara Ribeiro, João C. Moreno, António M. Soares, Fabrizio Frontalini, Daniel Rey, Fernando Rocha (2013) - The sources of the glacial IRD in the NW Iberian... more
Virgínia A. Martins, José F. Santos, Andreas Mackensen, João Alveirinho Dias, Sara Ribeiro, João C. Moreno, António M. Soares, Fabrizio Frontalini, Daniel Rey, Fernando Rocha (2013) - The sources of the glacial IRD in the NW Iberian Continental Margin over the last 40 ka. Quaternary International, 318:128–138. DOI: 10.1016/j.quaint.2013.08.026
In this work, the first results of ice rafted detritus (IRD) provenance related to Heinrich Events in the NW Iberian Margin are presented and discussed. This study is based on multi-proxies, namely on thorough analyses of Sr and Nd isotope ratios measured in the detrital fraction of the sediment core KC 024-19, from the Galician continental slope (NE Atlantic), aiming to unravel the sources of the terrigenous component of the sampled sediments.
In most of the core layers, the isotope signatures are consistent with an origin, ultimately, in the nearby Variscan continental crust. However, allochthonous contributions were also deposited, namely during the last four Heinrich Events (HE). The non-carbonate detrital fraction of the sediments deposited during the HE1 (in its upper part), HE2, and HE4 displays 3Nd much lower than usual, suggesting that those layers incorporate clasts dropped by icebergs (Ice-Rafted Detritus e IRD) whose sources must have been located in Archaean cratons, such as those of northeastern America and Greenland. The low-3Nd values combined with dolomite peaks support the hypothesis that icebergs fed by the Laurentide ice sheet and launched through Hudson Strait played a major role in the deposition of IRD during HE1, HE2, and HE4. The HE1 layer seems to record a complex evolution of this event, since, at its base, the coarse- grained non-carbonate fraction displays relatively high-3Nd values, pointing to European/Icelandic sources for the icebergs in the initial stages of HE1. The IRD content of the HE3 contrasts significantly with the other HE layers and the non-IRD layers because it has an isotope signature characterized by low 87Sr/86Sr ratios and high-3Nd values. This suggests that the most exotic components of the HE3 layer may have come from East Greenland e Fram Strait and/or result from a mixture of materials from western European and more juvenile (Iceland e Faeroes) crustal sources.
In this work, the first results of ice rafted detritus (IRD) provenance related to Heinrich Events in the NW Iberian Margin are presented and discussed. This study is based on multi-proxies, namely on thorough analyses of Sr and Nd isotope ratios measured in the detrital fraction of the sediment core KC 024-19, from the Galician continental slope (NE Atlantic), aiming to unravel the sources of the terrigenous component of the sampled sediments.
In most of the core layers, the isotope signatures are consistent with an origin, ultimately, in the nearby Variscan continental crust. However, allochthonous contributions were also deposited, namely during the last four Heinrich Events (HE). The non-carbonate detrital fraction of the sediments deposited during the HE1 (in its upper part), HE2, and HE4 displays 3Nd much lower than usual, suggesting that those layers incorporate clasts dropped by icebergs (Ice-Rafted Detritus e IRD) whose sources must have been located in Archaean cratons, such as those of northeastern America and Greenland. The low-3Nd values combined with dolomite peaks support the hypothesis that icebergs fed by the Laurentide ice sheet and launched through Hudson Strait played a major role in the deposition of IRD during HE1, HE2, and HE4. The HE1 layer seems to record a complex evolution of this event, since, at its base, the coarse- grained non-carbonate fraction displays relatively high-3Nd values, pointing to European/Icelandic sources for the icebergs in the initial stages of HE1. The IRD content of the HE3 contrasts significantly with the other HE layers and the non-IRD layers because it has an isotope signature characterized by low 87Sr/86Sr ratios and high-3Nd values. This suggests that the most exotic components of the HE3 layer may have come from East Greenland e Fram Strait and/or result from a mixture of materials from western European and more juvenile (Iceland e Faeroes) crustal sources.
Research Interests:
The OMEX core CD110 W90, retrieved from the Douro Mud Patch (DMP) off the River Douro in the north of Portugal, records the period since the beginning of Little Ice Age (LIA). The core chronology is based upon the data attributes for... more
The OMEX core CD110 W90, retrieved from the Douro Mud Patch (DMP) off the River Douro in the north of Portugal, records the period since the beginning of Little Ice Age (LIA). The core chronology is based upon the data attributes for 210Pb, 137Cs and a 14C dating from a level near the core base. Geochemical, granulometric, microfaunal (benthic foraminifera) and compositional data suggest the occurrence of precipitation changes which may have been, at least partially, influenced by the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), that contributes to the regulation of the ocean–atmosphere dynamics in the North Atlantic.Southwesterly Atlantic storm track is associated with the negative phases of the NAO, when the Azores High is anomalously weak, higher oceanographic hydrodynamism, downwelling events and increased rainfall generally occurs. Prevalence of these characteristics during the LIA left a record that corresponds to phases of major floods. During these phases the DMP received a higher contribution of relatively coarse-grained terrigenous sediments, enriched in quartz particles, which diluted the contribution of other minerals, as indicated by reduced concentrations of several lithogenic chemical elements such as: Al, As, Ba, Ce, Co, Cu, Fe, K, La, Li, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, P, Rb, Sc, Sn, Th, V and Y. The presence of biogenic carbonate particles also underwent dilution, as revealed by the smaller abundance of foraminifera and correlative lower concentrations of Ca and Sr. During this period, the DMP also received an increased contribution of organic matter, indicated by higher values of lignin remains and a benthic foraminifera high productivity index, or BFHP, which gave rise to early diagenetic changes with pyrite formation. Since the beginning of the 20th century this contribution diminished, probably due to several drier periods and the impact of human activities in the river basins, e.g. construction of dams, or, on the littoral areas, construction of hard-engineering structures and sand extraction activities.During the first half of the 20th century mainly positive phases of the NAO prevailed, caused by the above normal strengthening of the subtropical high pressure centre of the Azores and the deepening of the low pressure centre in Iceland. These phases may have contributed to the reduction in the supply of both terrigenous sediments and organic matter from shallow water to the DMP. During the positive phases of the NAO, sedimentation became finer.The development of mining and industrial activities during the 20th century is marked, in this core, by higher concentrations of Pb. Furthermore, the erosion of heaps resulting from wolfram exploitation leaves its signature as a peak of W concentrations recorded in the sediments of the DMP deposited between the 1960s and the 1990s. Wolfram exploitation was an important activity in the middle part of the 20th century, particularly during the period of the Second World War.► Sedimentary Processes on the NW Iberian Continental Shelf. ► Occurrence of precipitation changes linked with North Atlantic Oscillation since Little Ice Age. ► Anthropic influence since the Industrial Revolution. ► Early diagenetic changes.
The shell middens of São Julião and Magoito, located on the Atlantic coast of the Lisbon peninsula, are the only sites of the Portuguese Estremadura that feature occupations from the Atlantic period. These sites present occupations of the... more
The shell middens of São Julião and Magoito, located on the Atlantic coast of the Lisbon peninsula, are the only sites of
the Portuguese Estremadura that feature occupations from the Atlantic period. These sites present occupations of the Early Mesolithic
and successive reoccupations in the Late Mesolithic (S. Julião), the Early and Middle Neolithic (S. Julião, Magoito), Late Neolithic
(Magoito), Chalcolithic (S. Julião), and Bronze Age (Magoito). There is a great continuity in site structure throughout these periods,
which is very specialized for the specific and episodic exploitation of aquatic resources. The reoccupations are found in distinct loci,
showing a horizontal stratigraphy. Continuities and/or discontinuities of settlement during the Boreal/Atlantic transition period in Central
and Southern Portugal are matter of debate. The gap recorded in Estremadura, during the Atlantic period, is analyzed by taking into
account the taphonomy, the state of research, the environment and an economic and social model. This paper attempts a review of the
known data, but also presents new results for São Julião.
the Portuguese Estremadura that feature occupations from the Atlantic period. These sites present occupations of the Early Mesolithic
and successive reoccupations in the Late Mesolithic (S. Julião), the Early and Middle Neolithic (S. Julião, Magoito), Late Neolithic
(Magoito), Chalcolithic (S. Julião), and Bronze Age (Magoito). There is a great continuity in site structure throughout these periods,
which is very specialized for the specific and episodic exploitation of aquatic resources. The reoccupations are found in distinct loci,
showing a horizontal stratigraphy. Continuities and/or discontinuities of settlement during the Boreal/Atlantic transition period in Central
and Southern Portugal are matter of debate. The gap recorded in Estremadura, during the Atlantic period, is analyzed by taking into
account the taphonomy, the state of research, the environment and an economic and social model. This paper attempts a review of the
known data, but also presents new results for São Julião.