The archaeological site of Cueva de Villaverde (Fuerteventura): Holocene palaeoenvironment and human occupation in a volcanic tube

Abstract

Inside a volcanic tube, emitted during Upper Pleistocene, appear four different levels. The lower level could be related with a paleodune of El Quemado (site studied by Petit Maire et al, 1986, 1987). Level 2, rich in organic matter shows a humid climate, related with a cessation of eolian processes and a fixation of the dunes by vegetation. The presence of pyroclastic fragments, is related to the Holocene volcano of Bayuyo. Level 3 contains fragmented land gastropoda and rodent fossils. Level 4 is formed by human occupation.