The Lithic Quarries of Central Tandilia: Trajectories and Tensions Regarding their Conservation

Abstract

Since the peopling of the Pampean region, in the center of Tandilia ranges, hunter-gatherer groups produced numerous indigenous quarries. In these quarries, different kind of rocks were used until the european conquest. Later, with the foundation of the hill towns, these spaces continued to serve both as sites for artisanal craftsmanship and as integral components of agricultural and livestock exploitation.

Throughout history, we recognize continuity in some of the ways of inhabiting the hilly landscape that involve continuities. However, contemporary uses characterized by differing scales and based on other logics of landscape appropriation, impact and pose important threats to the archaeological sites and their inherent heritage.

In this paper, we describe the indigenous quarries of central Tandilia as persistent places exploring some aspects of their social construction trhough time. In this sense, we hope to contribute to the discussions about their usage and regulation and promote inclusive dialogues with different social sectors to encourage their preservation.