Châtelperronian stage

archaeology

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June 24, 2026

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The Châtelperronian stage, also known as the Lower Périgordian, represents the earliest phase of Upper Paleolithic tool traditions in Europe. This stage is characterized by a distinctive flint-chipping technique and the creation of blade tools. A key artifact of this period is the curved-backed knife, sharpened on one edge and blunted on the back12

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Perigordian industry
The earlier stage, called Châtelperronian, is concentrated in the Périgord region of France but is believed to have originated in southwestern Asia; it is distinguished from contemporary stone tool culture complexes by the presence of curved-backed knives (knives sharpened both on the cutting edge and the back). The later…
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The earlier stage, called Châtelperronian, is concentrated in the Périgord region of France but is believed to have originated in southwestern Asia; it is distinguished from contemporary stone tool culture complexes by the presence of curved-backed knives (knives sharpened both on the cutting edge and the back). The later…
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Neanderthal
Neanderthal culture
…technology, referred to as the Châtelperronian industry (the earlier of the two stages of the Perigordian industry), required much planning and precision to produce. The Châtelperronian demonstrates that early modern humans were not the sole makers of this sophisticated technology.
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…technology, referred to as the Châtelperronian industry (the earlier of the two stages of the Perigordian industry), required much planning and precision to produce. The Châtelperronian demonstrates that early modern humans were not the sole makers of this sophisticated technology.
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