The Iberomaurusian Prelude to Farming in Morocco

Abstract

The transition to the Neolithic followed a complex pattern in North Africa. Using Taforalt as a major case study, we examine the changes that occurred before farming. Our results suggest that a marked change in the use of the cave occurred around 15 000 cal BP, with the rapid accumulation of massive ashy midden layers known as the ‘Grey Series’. Based on a large number of radiocarbon dates, we demonstrate that the beginning of cemetery activity occurred soon after this time. It is also clear that before the middens formed, the nature of occupation was different. Changes in diet; elaborate burials, sometimes of grouped individuals, containing red ochre; and other grave goods confirm the complex social behavior of these hunter-gatherer groups.