Abstract

We present the characterization of the lithic technology of a site under a rock shelter located in an area of poor access and visibility within the Chapelco range, Neuqu & eacute;n, Argentina. The site is distinguished by the use of obsidian from at least three sources, two available within 25 km and another one 150 km to the north. The artifacts are related to the shaping and/or maintenance of bifacial tools that appeared manufactured at the site. Among these instruments, small obsidian flakes or microliths with traces of use predominate, which we postulate as a product of the maintenance of expeditious tools with sleeves. Finally, based on its chronology and closely associated archaeological contexts, it is argued that the site and the activities carried out there are part ofstrategies linked to early resistance and confrontation with Hispanic conquerors.