U-series and 14C datings for a newly discovered decorated area in the Palaeolithic cave of La Peña de Candamo (Asturies, Northern Spain)

Dating through Uranium series and 14C, has enabled us to estimate the chronology of the archaeological evidence located in this area (lithic industry, ochres, bones and carbons), where the artistry was also carried out. Analyses have also allowed us to identify the Palaeolithic access points to this decorated gallery. In this regard, the U/Th Holocene age obtained for the speleothems that seal the corridor connecting the Great Hall to the Gallery of Batiscias indicates that circulation between the two areas was possible in the Palaeolithic age. In addition, the 28 ky dating obtained for the carbonate crust that seals the scree over the exit to the outside from the gallery shows that, as from that moment, access was only possible from the Great Hall.