2022 studies of the early Paleolithic complexes at the Darvagchay-Zaliv-4 site

The article discusses the latest results obtained during the studies of the multi-layered site of Darvagchay-Zaliv-4 (Southeastern Dagestan). During the excavations, archaeological materials were found confirming the presence of two Early Paleolithic complexes of artifacts at the site, the chronological framework of which was established by the malacofauna analysis, paleomagnetic studies, and absolute dating by the OSL method. The lithic industry of the first complex found in layer 3 belongs to the final Acheulean period. The age of the cultural horizon was established in the range of250-220 ka (MIS 7). The collection of stone artifacts excavated in layer 5 belongs to late Acheulian and is the evidence of the earliest appearance of the ancient man in the area (380-330 ka, MIS 11-10). The most expressive part of the Early Paleolithic collections are large pebble and bifacially processed tools, including choppers, pikes, and axes. Among the tools on the chips, a small series of side-scrapers, spike-like, and notched products can be identified. In primary knapping of the late industry, the elements characteristic of the Levallois knapping are observed. In general, the provided complexes demonstrate a great similarity in the methods of design and types of stone articles.