Archeological research of Khairkhan-1 cave in Western Mongolia

Until now, stratified Paleolithic sites were unknown from Western Mongolia. In June - July 2023, a joint Russian-Mongolian archaeological expedition excavated the Khairkhan-1 cave in the limestone range of Ikh-Khairkhan in Zavkhan Aimag. The works covered the area of 2 sq. m. The depth of the excavated sediments was 2 m. Four main lithological layers were identified. Archaeological assemblages occurred in layers 1-3. The richest assemblage from layer 3 containedflake-based industry distinguished by overwhelming predominance of small irregular and subrectangular flakes. Blades were rare, mostly between 12 and 13 mm wide. Bladelets and microblades were absent. Two proximal fragments of large blades were identified. An irregular core in the final stage of reduction and centripetal core were discovered. Tools were scarce and mainly included retouched flakes, as well as point on flake and side-scraper fragment. The faunal assemblage of layer 3 consisted offragments of ostrich eggshells as well as bear, hare, and horse bones. A rhinoceros tooth was found in layer 3.1. Layer 4 contained bones ofpika, bear, and fragment of antelope jaw. Most likely, the upper part of the section up to layer 3.1 was accumulated in the Early Holocene - Final Pleistocene. Based on faunal composition and sediment features, layer 3.1 and the underlying layers can be dated to the last glacial maximum associated with climate aridization and increased aeolian activity. The collections obtained during the cave excavations have archaic appearance and find no direct archaeological parallels in the Holocene complexes of Mongolia.