Title: Taphonomic approach on the human deposits of the Canímar Abajo archaeological site, Matanzas, Cuba.

Abstract. We offer information about the importance of the taphonomic analysis in the "Canímar Abajo" site, Matanzas, Cuba; by analyzing the causes of differential preservation of human deposits exhumed during the campaigns from 2004 to 2007. Three main moments of use of the site were identified, observable in the stratigraphy, two of wich are stages of burial and other food processing. The diagenetic post and pre-burial processes were identified through the macroscopic effects on the entities and elements recovered. The main taphonomic alteration mechanisms were identified like biodegradation, sediment filling, bioerosion, sedimentary refilling, taphonomic distortion, cremation, disarticulation and dispersal. It explains what each showing the action of intrinsic and extrinsic factors (natural and/or human) on the burials.

Keywords: Archaeology, Taphonomy, differential preservation, bioerosion, sedimentary refilling, taphonomic distortion, cremation, disarticulation and dispersal.

How to cite this publication: Martínez-López, J. G., C. Arredondo, R. Rodríguez & S. Díaz-Franco. 2009. Aproximación tafonómica en los depósitos humanos del sitio arqueológico Canímar Abajo, Matanzas, Cuba. Arqueol. Iberoam. 4: 5-21. http://www.laiesken.net/arqueologia/archivo/2009/04/1_en.html.

Publication date: 21-12-2009.