Scavo delle Grotta della Ciota Ciara

The 2024 excavation campaign at Grotta della Ciota Ciara marked an important phase in studying the paleontological and archaeological context of the site, with the aim of deepening our understanding of sedimentary dynamics and human activities during the Middle Paleolithic. The work focused on two main stratigraphic units (US 13 and US 14), each characterized by specific lithic and paleontological evidence. US 13, rich in faunal remains and lithic artifacts, yielded significant discoveries, including a fragment of a Homo neanderthalensis mandible and lithic tools made of flint and quartz. Stratigraphically subsequent, US 14 revealed complex sedimentological features, such as discontinuities and sandy lenses, alongside paleontological remains of large mammals, including Ursus spelaeus. The activities adhered to a rigorous protocol for the documentation and treatment of artifacts. Each material was classified by quadrant, stratigraphic unit, and type (identifiable bones, unidentifiable bones, microfauna, teeth, quartz, flint). All sediments were washed and sieved to ensure detailed recovery of microremains. Photogrammetry was conducted at the conclusion of the excavation and at each stratigraphic unit transition to document the stratigraphic contexts. Micromorphological sampling was carried out in key sections to analyze transitions between different stratigraphic units (US C, US 13, and US 14), providing valuable data on the site’s depositional dynamics. Particular attention was given to lithic tools, which exhibit both opportunistic and more structured Levallois and discoid reduction methods. The quartz and flint flakes demonstrate the use of diverse knapping techniques, reflecting a complex technological organization. The campaign concluded with securing the excavation area and transporting materials to the laboratories of the University of Ferrara for further analysis. Preliminary results emphasize the site’s significance as an important window into the life and environment of early Middle Paleolithic human and faunal groups, highlighting the relevance of taphonomic and depositional dynamics. This excavation represents another step toward a deeper understanding of Grotta della Ciota Ciara’s role within the European prehistoric landscape and the early dispersal of Homo neanderthalensis.