Atapuerca, latest discoveries and new technologies for the study of our history

DESCRIPTION

The University of Burgos is home to two prominent research groups in human evolution and prehistory, both actively involved in the internationally renowned Atapuerca Project.

On one side is the Human Evolution Laboratory (LEH), led by Dr. José Miguel Carretero, composed of experts in paleontology, biological anthropology, and historical heritage. The LEH is affiliated with the Joint Center for Research on Evolution and Human Behavior (Universidad Complutense de Madrid – Instituto de Salud Carlos III).

On the other side is the Prehistory Research Group, headed by Dr. Carlos Díez, which brings together specialists in disciplines such as zooarchaeology, lithic and ceramic technology, settlement patterns, experimental archaeology, taxonomy, and historiography.

This course offers students an in-depth introduction to the methods and techniques used in the study of the Atapuerca archaeological site, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Through lectures and guided visits, participants will explore the scientific, technical, and theoretical foundations of human evolutionary research.

COURSE CONTENT

• Understanding the Quaternary Period

• Theory of Evolution

• The Fossil Record I, II, III

• Bipedalism

• Evolution of the birth process and altriciality

• Patterns in biological history

• Evolution of diet

• Evolution of sexuality and sociobiology

• Evolution of the human body

• Molecular evolution

• Encephalization: the emergence of language and mind

TECHNICAL VISITS

• Guided visit to the Atapuerca Archaeological Sites

• Visit to the Museum of Human Evolution (MEH)

• Visit to the National Research Center on Human Evolution (CENIEH)