First Data from the Prehistoric Site Complex of Cueva del Arco (Murcia, Spain)

Abstract The southern Iberian Peninsula is a key area for understanding the timing and patterns of Middle-to-Upper Palaeolithic transition. Recently, excavation study new sites have provided insights on this topic. aim paper to introduce Cueva del Arco, site complex featuring distinct caves rock shelters. Arco located at short distance from Almadenes gorge (Cieza, Spain) preserves both Middle Upper deposits assemblages, as well art. Despite being known since 1990s its art, systematic fieldwork was never undertaken until recently. We here report first results research programme that includes several cavities belonging complex, focusing location context site, stratigraphy chronology, formation. Research still ongoing, but preliminary suggest data will provide clues current debate transition Neanderthals anatomically modern humans in Europe.