IPHES-CERCA takes part in the 7th International Congress on Experimental Archaeology in Liège

From 22 to 25 October 2025, the Belgian city of Liège will host the 7th Congrès International d’Archéologie Expérimentale (CONEXP), a triennial meeting that gathers researchers from a wide range of disciplines —from prehistoric technology to traceology, archaeozoology, and public archaeology— with the aim of sharing experiences and advances in the field of experimental archaeology.

This methodology, based on the reproduction of ancient techniques and processes, makes it possible to test hypotheses about the lifestyles of prehistoric societies and to validate archaeological interpretations through the direct observation of gestures and material results. The congress also places special emphasis on science communication and on the role of young researchers, providing them with a platform to present their work and engage with international experts.

IPHES-CERCA participation

The Catalan Institute of Human Paleoecology and Social Evolution (IPHES-CERCA) will be represented with several contributions that reflect its leading research in taphonomy, lithic technology, and experimental archaeology:

• Multi-scale tribosystem and wear mechanism of bipolar flaking: integrating 3D digital, confocal, and scanning electron microscopy, by Görkem Cenk Yeşilova and Andreu Ollé.

This presentation analyses, through advanced 3D, confocal, and scanning electron microscopy techniques, the wear mechanisms and fracture dynamics associated with the bipolar knapping technique, providing new insights into its mechanics and functional efficiency.

• When predators met Neanderthals: wild carnivore neotaphonomy and the duration of Middle Palaeolithic occupations, by Jordi Rosell i Ardèvol.

This study examines the interaction between wild carnivores and Neanderthal groups through the taphonomic analysis of Middle Palaeolithic records, with implications for understanding site duration and occupation dynamics.

In addition, the following poster will be presented:

• Tracking the manufacture of spheroid morphotypes by refitting experimental knapping sets, by Amèlia Bargalló et al., which explores experimental processes in the manufacture of spheroid objects through the refitting of knapping assemblages.

With these contributions, IPHES-CERCA strengthens its presence in one of the world’s leading congresses in experimental archaeology, underscoring its commitment to interdisciplinary research and experimentation as key approaches for understanding the technologies and behaviours of prehistoric societies.