Abstract

GONZALEZ, M. Isabel  and  FRERE, M. Magdalena. TALA TREES AND THE FLUVIAL LANDSCAPE OF BUENOS AIRES PROVINCE: ARCHAEOLOGY OF THE RÍO SALADO. Intersecciones antropol. [online]. 2009, vol.10, n.2, pp.249-265. ISSN 1850-373X.

This paper suggests that Celtis tala was one of the resources that enriched the biodiversity of the province of Buenos Aires landscape, even though the tala forest was not considered important traditionally. Tala woodlands were strongly linked to the development of daily life since the initial moments of Spanish colonization, and they were cared for and valued. As early as 1667 the Cabildo records already declare this wild forest as held in common by all inhabitants. In pre-Hispanic times, approximately 2000 years ago, settlements were established in the forest of the Salado Basin and its wood was used for fuel. Results of anthracological studies from charcoal recovered in archaeological sites indicate it originated as tala wood. Charcoal from molle (Schinus sp.) and willow (Salix sp.) were also recognized. This paper provides information that enables the importance of this plant species in technology and in human diet to begin to be understood. Finally, the link found between these woodlands and different social actors, as well as to ceramic production and the procurement of river resources, is discussed.

Keywords : Río Salado area; Tala woods; River resources; Ceramic; Social actors.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in Spanish     · Spanish ( pdf )