Spatio-temporal trends in complex caves use in the later prehistory of the southern Levant

Morphologically composite caves constitute a unique spatial sphere for social activity, remote and different from everyday landscapes. As in numerous regions with carbonate rocks worldwide, the southern Levant houses a plethora of complex caves, reaching hundreds and thousands of meters in total length. Yet, despite occasional archaeological discoveries, comparative analysis of complex cave use patterns over the longue durée has not been attempted for this region. This article presents a comprehensive investigation of temporal and spatial trends in the use of composite underground systems in the southern Levant during the late prehistoric sequence, between the seventh and third millennia BCE. Based on the observable regional and chronological shifts, as well as the material-cultural remains deposited in the caves, it is suggested that the frequency and distribution of complex cave use may be employed as a sensitive recorder of cultural dynamics. Since the activity in the deep underground is commonly associated with symbolic behavior, the cultural preference to operate in or avoid the use of complex caves should be viewed as socially structured, reflecting deep social identity and ideology.