Reassessment of the Early Acheulean at EN1-Noolchalai (Ancient RHS-Mugulud) in Peninj (Lake Natron, Tanzania)

Recent fieldwork carried out in EN1-Noolchalai between 2009 and 2011, one of the most significant Acheulean sites located on the Sambu Escarpment of Peninj (Tanzania) and dated to 1.5–1.4 Ma, has allowed us to undertake more complete geomorphologic and sedimentological research at this site. This contextual research has allowed us to clarify the geoarchaeological interpretation of this taphonomically complex site in order to assess its relevance within the Early Acheulean in East Africa. New stratigraphic work suggests that the archaeological site has been severely affected by fluvial erosion and redeposition. Our 2009–2011 archaeological excavation has also unearthed a new lithic collection that, along with the samples retrieved in the course of previous research projects, makes it possible to present a more complete assessment of the Early Acheulean technology of this site. The new technological interpretation confirms that the toolmakers at Noolchalai were aware of the volumetric principles related to the production of bifaces and cleavers.