A New Era of Archaeological Research
Archaeological research at the Cal Sitjo site, located in Sant Martí de Tous, has entered a new phase with its fifth excavation campaign. Experts have found remains dating back 9,000 years, including flint tools, hearths, animal bones and ceramics, which reveal valuable information about the societies that inhabited this region of Central Catalonia during the Neolithic and Mesolithic periods.
Revelations about Daily Life
Led by Bruno Gómez de Soler, a researcher at IPHES-CERCA, this campaign, which took place between October 28 and November 15, has allowed scientists to document the habitat structures of these ancient communities. The results obtained this year will facilitate a detailed reconstruction of the social dynamics, the organization of domestic spaces and the cultural practices that defined daily life at that time.
Tools and Livelihood Strategies
The researchers point out that these findings are fundamental to understanding the subsistence strategies of these societies. The importance of flint, a key material for tool making, stands out as a central aspect of the prehistoric economy. The structures associated with fire and housing suggest a complex daily life, adapted to the conditions of their environment.
Excavations and New Finds
During this campaign, archaeologists have focused their efforts on the excavation of Cove 1, which covers an area of about 15 m², as well as on the opening of a new cove, Cove 2, of 4 m², with the aim of expanding the chronological sequence of the site, possibly revealing older levels.
A Rich Environment
The Cal Sitjo site, located on the left bank of the Tous stream, is formed from Quaternary fluvial deposits. The sediments, composed mainly of travertines, clays and sands, have created a stratigraphic thickness of about 8 meters, accessible thanks to the natural erosion of the stream.
Community Collaboration and Support
In this edition, nine professionals have participated, including researchers from IPHES-CERCA and students from the URV and the UOC. This initiative is part of the four-year project ‘Prehistoric Territories of the Anoia Basin’ (2022-2025), approved by the Department of Culture of Catalonia. The campaign has received funding from several institutions, including AGAUR and the Sant Martí de Tous City Council, as well as the support of the Amics de Sant Martí de Tous association and the owner of the land.
