Iberian Neolithic expertise in archery revealed by exceptional findings in Spain

Iberian Neolithic expertise in archery revealed by exceptional findings in Spain
by Erica Marchand
Paris, France (SPX) Dec 06, 2024

The detailed analysis of archaeological artifacts from the Cave of Los Murcielagos in Albunol, Granada, has uncovered the advanced archery practices of Iberian Neolithic societies from 5300-4900 BCE. This interdisciplinary study, led by the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona (UAB) and published in *Scientific Reports* (Nature Portfolio), provides unprecedented insights into the materials and techniques used by these ancient communities.

Collaborating institutions included the University of Alcala (UAH), the Institute of Heritage Sciences (INCIPIT-CSIC), and the UAB Institute for Environmental Science and Technology (ICTA-UAB), along with the Universite Cote d'Azur and the CNRS in France.

Discoveries of Remarkably Preserved Archery Equipment

The unique preservation of organic remains in the dry conditions of the cave revealed a trove of Neolithic archery equipment. This included arrows with intact feathers, fiber remnants, and two bowstrings crafted from animal sinews - Europe's oldest known examples.

"In identifying these bowstrings, we confirmed that animal tendons were used, and we pinpointed the specific species involved," said Ingrid Bertin, UAB researcher and lead author of the study. The bowstrings were made from tendons of Capra sp. (goats or ibex), Sus sp. (wild boar or pigs), and roe deer. Twisting these tendons together produced durable and flexible ropes suited to the needs of expert archers. "The craftsmanship demonstrates a high level of technical expertise," added Raquel Pique, coordinator of the study and a researcher in UAB's Department of Prehistory.

Innovative Use of Local Resources

Analysis of arrow shafts revealed the use of regional materials such as olive wood (Olea europaea) and reed wood (Phragmites sp.), marking the first confirmed use of reeds in prehistoric European arrows. The combination of olive, willow, and reed wood provided optimal ballistic properties. The shafts' hard, dense front sections combined with lightweight rears enhanced performance, even without traditional stone or bone tips.

Birch bark pitch was applied to the shafts for protection and potential decoration, adding aesthetic and functional value to the equipment.

Redefining Neolithic Technologies

The study highlights the Neolithic groups' remarkable adaptation to their environment, combining diverse materials and advanced manufacturing techniques. "This research offers a deeper understanding of prehistoric societies and their impressive technological knowledge," said Pique. It also sheds light on the symbolic role of these artifacts, which were found in a funerary context within the cave.

The findings challenge existing perceptions of early agricultural societies in Europe, showcasing their sophisticated craftsmanship and technical mastery in weaponry. The research team utilized advanced microscopy and biomolecular analysis, including protein and lipid studies, to achieve these results.

"This opens pathways for further exploration of ancient weaponry across other European Neolithic sites," Pique noted.

The discoveries from the Cave of Los Murcielagos not only provide a detailed view of ancestral archery practices but also redefine our understanding of the ingenuity and cultural depth of Neolithic societies.