https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0277379124005274
A Neanderthal's specialised burning
structure compatible with tar obtention

Highlights
* Neanderthal hearth discovered in the
excavation rea of Vanguard Cave (VC).
* The structure is a primary result of
heating of rockroses (Cistaceae).
* The oldest evidence of Levoglucosan
and retene in an archaeological context.
* The studied hearth structure is highly
polleniferous
* Neanderthal abilities to organize fire
use activities for specific tecnological
objectives.


Abstract
Here we present multiproxy evidence of a
new type of Neanderthal hearth discovered
in Vanguard Cave (VC) (Gibraltar), which
is dated 65 kyr, and associated with
Middle Paleolithic stone artefacts. The
hearth structure coincides with predictions
from theoretical studies which require the
use of heating structures for obtaining
birch tar, commonly used in hafting. We
propose that the structure was used for
heating rockroses (Cistaceae) under anoxic
conditions by burning herbs and shrubs,
over a guano mixed with sand layer. We
tested this hypothesis experimentally with
success. The presence of levoglucosan and
retene in the structure's matrix points to
combustion of higher resinous plant-derived
material. Our results advance our
understanding of Neanderthal behaviour, as
the ability to organize activities related
with the use of fire.

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