Technological Trajectory of Medzhybizh 1 Layer III: A Specific Opportunistic Lower Paleolithic Industry of MIS 11

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This study investigates the technological trajectory and reduction strategies of the lithic assemblage from layer III of Medzhybizh 1 (MIS 11). Low raw material utilization, opportunistic methods, and short operational sequences characterize the industry. Rather than being exclusively focused on flake production, the technological trajectory appears aimed at obtaining sharp-edged pieces from a variety of blank types. Detached flakes and pebble fragments were seldom subjected to further modification. The analysis of assemblage structure, toolkit composition, and chaîne opératoire indicates that layer III of Medzhybizh 1 represents an atypical example within the context of MIS 11, highlighting the variability of core-and-flake industries in the European Lower Paleolithic.